Leeds United and Southampton will be targeting entirely different markets for their summer signings.
Following their victory over Leeds in the Championship play-off final last month, Southampton will have more financial flexibility to assemble a squad capable of surviving in the Premier League.
In contrast, Leeds must be more strategic in their recruitment to stay within the Profitability and Sustainability Regulations (PSR). However, Paraag Marathe has assured that there will be funds available for spending.
Leeds can officially begin signing players starting today, though behind-the-scenes efforts have been ongoing. Evidence of this is seen in Brenden Aaronson’s discussions with Daniel Farke and his agreement to return to Elland Road next season.
Leeds should move for former Southampton target Nathan Wood
A year ago, Leeds United and Southampton found themselves in similar situations, both searching for new managers following relegation. Consequently, there was considerable overlap in their transfer targets last summer, with players like Joel Piroe, Taylor Harwood-Bellis, and Max Aarons being linked to both clubs.
One player Southampton pursued that Leeds did not was Swansea City defender Nathan Wood, who had previously worked with Russell Martin at Swansea. According to Wales Online, Southampton had a £10 million offer for Wood rejected by Swansea a year ago and are now expecting renewed interest. With Wood’s contract expiring in a year and no extension in sight, his departure seems likely.
Leeds, facing uncertainty with Joe Rodon’s return, Liam Cooper’s contract status, and interest in Charlie Cresswell from other clubs, will prioritize acquiring new central defenders. If a deal for Rodon cannot be secured, Wood would be an excellent alternative, especially given his contract situation, making him available for less than £10 million. At 22, with 26 appearances for Swansea last season, Wood has significant potential for growth.
FBRef suggests that Wood is similar in style to Pascal Struijk. Fielding two defenders of that caliber could provide a strong foundation for Leeds’ promotion push next season.
Regarding Joe Rodon, Leeds’ primary target at center-back remains Rodon after his successful loan spell from Tottenham. However, securing a permanent deal for Rodon might be challenging due to financial constraints and interest from Premier League clubs. Ipswich Town’s boss Kieran McKenna is reportedly a big fan of Rodon, which could sway his decision.
Leeds will need contingency plans if Rodon does not return, and Nathan Wood should certainly be considered as a viable option.
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