Daniel Farke may have shocked many Leeds United supporters against Manchester City back in November after switching to a back-three formation at halftime.

Such a decision has since been crucial to the manager’s tactics in recent months, as he’s subsequently utilised the aforementioned system in every outing.

The Whites have now lost just four times in 24 Premier League matches, with such a run allowing the side to secure their top-flight status for another campaign.

However, Farke has since spoken out in recent days and demanded the hierarchy either back him in the summer or replace him after fulfilling his initial targets at Elland Road.

It appears that the 49ers have listened to the 49-year-old’s outcry, as numerous players have appeared on the club’s shortlist over the last few days.

Leeds now pushing to sign £25m star this summer

In an attempt to bolster the Leeds squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, a whole host of players have been linked with a potential switch to Yorkshire this summer.

Chelsea star Liam Delap is just one player who’s appeared on their radar ahead of the window, with the Englishman set to leave Chelsea despite moving for £30m last summer.

Everton are another side who are also touted with a move for the 24-year-old, with the striker wanting to stay in the Premier League should he depart Stamford Bridge.

He’s not the only player who could prove to be a viable target for the Whites, with current Sunderland loanee Lutsharel Geertruida also being touted with a move to Elland Road.

According to reports on the continent, Farke’s men are pushing to land the Dutchman’s signature this summer after it was announced he wouldn’t be joining the Black Cats permanently.

The journalist also states that the likes of Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Everton are closely monitoring the 25-year-old’s progress ahead of the off-season.

Whilst Vidal doesn’t mention a fee for his signature, previous reports have claimed that parent club RB Leipzig are demanding a fee in the region of £25m for his services.

Why Geertruida would be Leeds’ next Ampadu

Shrewd business has needed to be conducted by Leeds over the last few years - with the £7m deal to land Ethan Ampadu back in the summer of 2023 undoubtedly falling into that category.

The 25-year-old has become a leading figure within the Whites’ squad in recent seasons, subsequently helping the side gain promotion and secure their top-flight status.

The Welsh international has been rewarded with the captain’s armband in recent months - a decision that has allowed the midfielder to reach the next level in his career.

Ampadu has featured in all but three league games this term, highlighting his importance to Farke - even operating in a handful of different positions in his new system.

His versatility and quality has only aided his development in the Premier League, with a move for Geertruida allowing the club to land their next version of the fan-favourite.

Like the Welshman, the Sunderland loanee has featured in centre-back, right-back and deep-lying midfield roles, which could make him a vital option for Farke’s side.

His temporary spell at the Stadium of Light has seen the 25-year-old catch the eye - as seen by the recent interest in his signature from a whole host of clubs.

He’s made 6.3 defensive contributions and 2.1 tackles per 90 for Regis Le Bris’ men this term, with such numbers making him a dominant option without the ball.

The versatile star, who’s been dubbed “top-class” by journalist Josh Bunting, has also thrived with the ball at his feet, as seen by his 64% dribble success and 86% accuracy - emulating the levels produced by Ampadu.

Geertruida has previously racked up top-level experience during his career, as seen by his impressive tally of 48 European appearances with the likes of Leipzig and Feyenoord.

Such stats would no doubt make him a superb addition for Farke’s side this summer - with the manager undoubtedly delighted to land a player of his calibre.

A move for Geertruida highlights the ambition of the Leeds hierarchy this summer, with such a move handing the manager the chance to build on his success this season.

Should the Dutchman get anywhere near the levels of Ampadu at Elland Road, he would be yet another phenomenal addition in the quest for success in England’s top-flight.