Leeds United Prepares for Final Pre-Season Match Against Valencia
Leeds United is gearing up for their final pre-season outing of the summer as they prepare to welcome La Liga side Valencia to Elland Road this weekend. The Whites have had a successful pre-season so far, winning all three of their fixtures, with victories over Harrogate Town, Hannover 96, and Schalke 04.
The latter two matches were played behind closed doors in Germany. However, Leeds has arranged this weekend’s Elland Road clash with Valencia to give fans a chance to see their team in action before their Championship campaign kicks off on August 10.
Transfer Window Activity
The transfer window remains open until August 30, with numerous deals expected to be completed by Championship clubs before the deadline. Below, we round up the latest news and rumors from Leeds and their opening-day rivals, Portsmouth.
Leeds United Target Training Alone
AC Milan defender Fode Ballo-Toure is currently training away from the club’s senior squad amid reported interest from Leeds, Besiktas, and Watford. According to Italian outlet Calcio Mercato, the player has had a falling out with the club’s management. The Senegal international spent last season on loan at Premier League side Fulham but played just eight times for the Craven Cottage outfit. He has one year remaining on his contract at the San Siro, having joined from AS Monaco in 2021 for around £4.5m. The 27-year-old is primarily a left-back but has also played at center-back and left midfield in the past.
Leeds has already strengthened their defense with the signings of Joe Rodon and Jayden Bogle this summer, with the pair playing as center-back and right-back, respectively. Jamie Shackleton, Archie Gray, and Charlie Cresswell have all moved on, while Liam Cooper is not part of Daniel Farke’s plans after his contract ended. Ballo-Toure is reportedly keen to leave AC Milan this summer, but with Leeds having Junior Firpo and Sam Byram as their left-back options, it remains to be seen if the Whites will make a concrete offer.
Portsmouth Agree Deal for Striker
Leeds will face Portsmouth at Elland Road on the opening weekend of the Championship campaign, with the south coast side reportedly agreeing on a deal to sign ex-Newcastle United striker Elias Sørensen. According to reports in Denmark, Tipsbladet has claimed a fee between 300,000 and 400,000 euros has been offered by Portsmouth to Danish side Esbjerg, with the player now just waiting on a work permit to complete the move.
The 24-year-old Dane started his career with HB Køge before moving to St James’ Park in 2016. He spent time in the club’s academy and had loan spells at Blackpool, Carlisle United, and Dutch side Almere City. Sørensen never made a senior appearance for the Magpies before transferring to Esbjerg in 2021. He has since played 84 times for the club, scoring 43 goals and providing 21 assists. If his transfer to Portsmouth is finalized in time, he could be lining up against Leeds.
Pre-Season Performance
Leeds’ pre-season has been impressive, with the team showing promising form ahead of the new season. Victories over Harrogate Town, Hannover 96, and Schalke 04 have set a positive tone for the club. The matches against Hannover and Schalke, played behind closed doors in Germany, provided valuable experience and preparation for the squad.
The upcoming match against Valencia will be a crucial test for Leeds, offering fans a glimpse of the team’s potential and readiness for the Championship campaign. The game will also allow manager Daniel Farke to assess his squad and finalize his strategies before the season opener.
Squad Developments
This summer has seen several changes to the Leeds squad. The addition of Joe Rodon and Jayden Bogle has bolstered the defense, while departures like Jamie Shackleton, Archie Gray, and Charlie Cresswell have made room for new talent. The situation with Fode Ballo-Toure remains uncertain, but his potential signing could further enhance the team’s defensive options.
Liam Cooper’s departure marks the end of an era for Leeds, with the club looking to move forward under Farke’s guidance. The manager’s focus will be on building a cohesive unit capable of competing at the top of the Championship.
Fans’ Expectations
Leeds fans are eagerly anticipating the new season, with high hopes for a successful campaign. The pre-season performances have generated excitement and optimism among supporters, who are looking forward to seeing their team in action at Elland Road against Valencia.
The transfer window activity will also be closely watched, with fans hoping for additional signings that can strengthen the squad and enhance their promotion prospects. The potential arrival of Fode Ballo-Toure and the confirmed signings of Rodon and Bogle indicate the club’s ambition to build a competitive team.
Championship Campaign Outlook
As the Championship campaign approaches, Leeds United is aiming to make a strong start. The match against Portsmouth on the opening weekend will be a significant fixture, setting the tone for the season ahead. With new signings, strategic planning, and a successful pre-season, the Whites are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
The transfer window will be a critical period for Leeds, with potential deals and squad adjustments expected. The club’s ability to navigate this period effectively will play a crucial role in their overall success this season.
In conclusion, Leeds United is on a positive trajectory as they prepare for the final pre-season match against Valencia and the upcoming Championship campaign. With strategic signings, a solid pre-season performance, and a focused approach, the club is poised for an exciting and competitive season ahead.
