Leeds United will have a clearer vision of their summer transfer strategy after their crucial match against Southampton in the Championship play-off final at Wembley. This fixture represents their last opportunity to secure a place in the Premier League for next season.
A win in the capital would shift the focus towards new arrivals, rather than departures, during the summer transfer window. Several players, including Kalvin Phillips, have already been linked with a move to the club, should they secure promotion.
However, if Leeds fail to ascend to the Premier League, the 49ers Enterprises have acknowledged that key player sales will be necessary.
This is due to a 10% reduction in parachute payments and the need to adhere to the EFL’s stricter Profitability and Sustainability Regulations (PSR). Leeds would need to generate £100 million from player sales this summer, with prized assets such as Crysencio Summerville and Archie Gray likely to attract significant interest.
Brenden Aaronson’s Uncertain Future
While some key players would have to leave, Leeds could also offload several who have been out on loan. The club is confident that Jack Harrison, Max Wober, Marc Roca, and Diego Llorente have done enough to secure permanent moves, which would help raise substantial funds. Regardless of the outcome at Wembley, it is unlikely these players will return to Elland Road this summer.
One player facing a more uncertain future is Brenden Aaronson, whose loan spell at Union Berlin ended last weekend. Aaronson managed to help Union narrowly avoid relegation, but his contribution—two goals and two assists—makes a permanent move unlikely.
Union Berlin confirmed earlier this week that they would not be signing Aaronson permanently. The 23-year-old appeared to acknowledge this on Instagram, writing:
“Thank you @1.fcunion for taking me in as family this past season. We couldn’t have done it without the relentless positivity from the unbelievable fan base and resilience from each player and staff. I learned so much from this team and will always be grateful to say I was a part of such an amazing club.”
Potential Sale at a Loss
Despite Union Berlin’s decision, it is difficult to see Aaronson being given another chance at Leeds, especially in light of manager Daniel Farke’s comments following Luis Sinisterra’s permanent departure.
Leeds spent £25 million to sign Aaronson from Red Bull Salzburg almost two years ago, but it appears they are now prepared to accept a significant loss on him. Reports suggest that 49ers Enterprises will ask for just £10 million to sell Aaronson, a staggering depreciation in such a short period.
It certainly feels like the right time for Leeds to part ways with Aaronson, given that there appears to be no viable path back for him at Elland Road.
The club’s ability to adapt and make shrewd decisions during this transformative summer will be crucial in shaping their future, whether they secure Premier League status or face another season in the Championship.