Leeds United are already preparing for a big defensive change this summer after Pascal Struijk’s expected departure from Elland Road.
The Whites have been busy building their squad ahead of the new Premier League season, but they now face the challenge of replacing one of their important defenders.
Struijk has been a key player for Leeds over the last few years, but the club are now close to agreeing a move that will see him leave for Brighton. With his exit getting closer, Daniel Farke’s side has started looking for a new centre-back.
Leeds are now believed to be interested in Borussia Monchengladbach defender Nico Elvedi as they look for an experienced player who can step straight into the team.
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Leeds open talks for Nico Elvedi transfer
Reports claim Leeds have already held talks with Elvedi about a possible summer move to Elland Road.
The Switzerland international is currently involved in the World Cup and has helped his country reach the knockout stages. His performances have continued to attract attention, and Leeds believe he could be the right player to strengthen their defence.
Elvedi has spent years playing at a high level in Germany and has become one of the more reliable defenders in the Bundesliga. His experience is something Leeds are looking for as they prepare for another Premier League campaign.
The defender is said to be interested in moving to England, with a chance to test himself in the Premier League seen as an attractive opportunity.
For Leeds, signing an experienced centre-back is becoming a priority. They do not want to replace Struijk with an unproven player and risk weakening their squad.
Pascal Struijk set for Elland Road exit
Struijk’s departure was not something Leeds wanted at the start of the summer.
The club offered the Dutch defender a new contract and hoped he would continue his journey at Elland Road. However, the player wanted a new challenge, and Leeds decided it was better to sell him rather than lose him for nothing later.
The centre-back still had one year left on his current deal, but Leeds wanted to protect the value of one of their important assets.
A deal with Brighton is now close, with the transfer fee reportedly around £20 million.
That money will give Leeds more room to improve the squad, but finding a replacement will be one of their biggest tasks.
Struijk played an important role last season as Leeds secured their Premier League safety. His defensive ability, calm passing and leadership helped the team during a difficult campaign.
Replacing those qualities will not be easy.
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Why Elvedi could be the right fit for Farke
Nico Elvedi appears to match what Leeds need.
The 29-year-old defender has plenty of experience and has spent many seasons competing in one of Europe’s strongest leagues.
Daniel Farke knows the German football market well and could see Elvedi as a player who understands the demands of his system.
Leeds need defenders who can handle pressure, defend against Premier League attackers and also be comfortable with the ball.
Elvedi has shown those qualities throughout his career. His ability to play in a back four and help organise the defence could make him a valuable signing.
However, a deal is not completed yet. Gladbach are expected to demand a strong fee because they do not want to lose one of their senior players.
Leeds may need to negotiate before they can bring the defender to Yorkshire.
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Leeds continue summer rebuild
The move for Elvedi shows that Leeds are planning carefully for life back in the Premier League.
The club have already started adding quality in attacking areas, and now the focus is on keeping the defence strong.
Losing Struijk is a blow, but Leeds are trying to turn the situation into a positive one by bringing in an experienced replacement.
If they can complete a deal for Elvedi, Farke could have another reliable option ready for the new season.
The summer transfer window is still open, and more changes are expected at Elland Road as Leeds continue to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level.
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