One area that Daniel Farke will want strengthened in the summer window at Leeds United is central midfield after being left with just two options in that position on two occasions, during 2024-25.

Paraag Marathe has made it clear Leeds will spend every penny as long as they stay on the right side of Profit & Sustainability Rules, in order to bridge the gap between Premier League and the Championship.

The 49ers are said to want six new signings at Leeds, and Marathe’s comments suggest that Leeds will do everything they can to improve the squad. This season, central midfield has been an issue for Farke.

Injuries to Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev in October and November forced Leeds to consider the free agent market – and in came Josuha Guilavogui. In the last few games, the same has happened in midfield.

Leeds United identify Newcastle United star as midfield target

Injuries to Joe Rothwell and Pascal Struijk has not only limited Leeds’ options in midfield by one, but Ampadu has dropped into defence to replace Struijk – leaving Leeds with just Gruev and Ao Tanaka.

Leeds need another midfielder and ideally, one that can do it all. A holding midfielder, a box-to-box midfielder and one that could play further forward – and Newcastle United’s Sean Longstaff is that man.

The star has impressed over the years after coming through the Toon academy. But now, he finds himself down the pecking order. Leeds are keen on Longstaff, and Eddie Howe discussed his future on Friday.

“No [we won’t stand in his way], but I think we’ll work with Sean on that, I think he’s got our utmost respect. He’s been a brilliant servant to the football club,” Howe said during Friday’s press conference.

“He has a contract with the football club. So, in some senses, he can dictate what happens with his future. Let’s wait and see on that. He’s still a very valued member of the squad. He’s got a big part to play.”

How much Leeds United need to pay to sign Sean Longstaff

Last summer, Leeds were linked with Longstaff if promoted at a fee of £15m. The Toon midfielder still had two years remaining on his contract at St. James’ Park, but this summer he will enter his final year.

It will see the price tag reduce further and The Sun say he will cost a bargain £10m. Given the quality of the player, his Premier League experience and his age, a fee of £10m seems like good value for money.

If Leeds were to start with the signing of Longstaff, they could do a lot worse. He has been superb for Howe’s Newcastle, and even was during Rafa Benitez’s stint. Leeds are also interested in Julian Weigl.