Farke’s Dream XI: How Leeds United Could Line Up If Three Deadline-Day Signings Are Secured
Leeds United have had a solid summer, rebuilding with purpose and precision after their promotion back to the Premier League. Yet, with the 2025–26 season fast approaching, there’s a growing sense among fans and insiders alike that the work isn’t quite done. While Daniel Farke has patched several holes in the squad, three critical positions still require urgent reinforcements if the Whites want to do more than merely survive in the top flight.
It’s a case of so near, yet so far. But if Leeds can land the three dream signings they’ve been eyeing before the window slams shut, Farke could field a starting XI that not only competes—but thrives—in the Premier League.
Summer So Far: Solidity and Steel, But Flair Still Missing
Farke’s summer strategy has been clear: reinforce the spine. A reliable goalkeeper, a dynamic left-back, two new centre-backs, and two hard-working central midfielders have already walked through the doors at Elland Road. These are not glamorous signings, but they are foundational—designed to give the team structure, shape, and balance.
However, while Leeds now look more difficult to break down, there’s a glaring absence of attacking creativity and unpredictability—the kind that wins games, not just avoids losses.
Let’s break down the three positions that could transform Leeds’ fortunes this season:
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1. A Clinical Striker: The Missing Piece of the Puzzle
While Joel Piroe continues to impress—scoring in three consecutive friendlies—questions remain over whether he can be a consistent Premier League goal threat. He bagged the Championship Golden Boot last season, but the Premier League is a different beast entirely. Can he replicate that form when facing the likes of Van Dijk, Saliba, or Akanji?
Lukas Nmecha offers backup, but lacks the experience and physicality to shoulder a full season. Patrick Bamford is surplus to requirements, and Mateo Joseph wants out, potentially joining Real Betis before the deadline.
This leaves Leeds perilously thin up top—and vulnerable if Piroe suffers even a minor dip in form or fitness.
Enter Rodrigo Muniz.
The Fulham frontman has been on Leeds’ radar for months. Known for his physicality, intelligent movement, and surprising technical ability, Muniz could give Farke the target man his system craves. Fulham rejected an earlier bid, but with Atalanta cooling their interest, Leeds may yet win the race if they act decisively.
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2. A True No.10: The Creative Conductor Leeds Desperately Need
Leeds need a spark in midfield—and Brenden Aaronson hasn’t been able to provide it. Despite his tireless running and commitment, his return of just two assists last season is underwhelming, especially for someone positioned at the heart of Leeds’ attack.
In a system that relies on transitions and incisive passes between the lines, Leeds need a playmaker who can unlock deep blocks and dictate tempo.
Bilal El Khannouss of Leicester City has reportedly emerged as the top target. The Moroccan international combines flair with intelligence and has the technique to glide past players and pick out killer passes. With competition from abroad, time is of the essence—but if Leeds can lure him to Elland Road, they’ll finally have the creative linchpin they’ve lacked since Pablo Hernandez.
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3. A Winger Who Can Tear Defenders Apart
Willy Gnonto and Dan James bring pace and intensity, but consistency at the Premier League level remains in doubt. Meanwhile, the departure of Manor Solomon, and the failed pursuit of Igor Paixao, has left Leeds scrambling for reinforcements out wide.
Farke also appears unconvinced by Largie Ramazani, who failed to impress last term despite multiple opportunities.
One name has surfaced as a perfect solution: Dilane Bakwa.
The Strasbourg winger is dynamic, fearless, and capable of playing on either flank. He’s comfortable taking on defenders one-on-one and possesses the kind of directness and unpredictability Leeds need to stretch opposition backlines. After missing out on Paixao to Marseille, landing Bakwa could prove a huge win.
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Farke’s Potential Dream XI with Three Signings
If Leeds succeed in pulling off this triple swoop, here’s how their starting XI could look on opening day:
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Meslier
Spence Rodon Struijk Firpo
Kamara Ampadu
Bakwa El Khannouss Gnonto
Muniz
Rodrigo Muniz leads the line, bringing physical presence and Premier League experience.
El Khannouss slots into the No.10 role, offering the creativity and vision Leeds have lacked.
Bakwa and Gnonto bring width, pace, and flair, stretching the pitch and unsettling defences.
Add to that a midfield shield of Kamara and Ampadu, a revitalised defence anchored by Rodon and Struijk, and Illan Meslier between the sticks—and suddenly, this Leeds side looks well-rounded, dynamic, and Premier League-ready.
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Final Thoughts: Three Steps from a Complete Rebuild
Leeds United are on the brink of completing one of their most intelligent windows in recent memory. With strong foundations already in place, three more targeted, strategic additions could elevate the club from relegation candidates to comfortable mid-table contenders—or perhaps even better.
Daniel Farke has the blueprint. The board has shown ambition. Now, it’s about execution.
If Muniz, El Khannouss, and Bakwa walk through the doors of Thorp Arch before deadline day, Leeds fans may have every reason to dream again.
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