Leeds United Pursues Diogo Leite Amid Pascal Struijk Uncertainty

Leeds United is reportedly keen on acquiring Portuguese defender Diogo Leite during the upcoming summer transfer window. The club is looking to bolster its defense following a solid finish in the 2025-26 Premier League season, where they placed 14th.

In a significant move, Ethan Ampadu has committed his future to Leeds by signing a new and improved contract that extends until the summer of 2030. The club aims to break into the top half of the league next season.

Leeds is actively seeking defensive reinforcements, with Championship-bound center-back Ladislav Krejci also on their radar as Wolverhampton Wanderers prepares for a stint in the second tier.

Krejci made headlines recently by scoring in his team’s opening World Cup match against South Korea, although his side ultimately lost 2-1.

© Imago / Visionhaus.

Leeds Targets Defender Leite

According to transfer expert Rudy Galetti, Leeds has identified Diogo Leite as a key target for the summer transfer window as they prepare for the critical 2026-27 season. The 27-year-old defender is currently a free agent after his contract with Bundesliga side Union Berlin expired.

Leite is attracting interest from several clubs worldwide, including a Saudi Pro League team backed by PIF, despite never having played for Portugal’s senior national team, although he was included in the squad for a Euro 2024 qualifier.

However, staying within Europe remains a strong possibility for Leite, with both Leeds and Turkish giants Besiktas vying for his signature. The competition for the defender’s services is intensifying as both clubs are ‘actively exploring’ potential moves this summer.

© Imago.

Concerns Over Struijk’s Future

The future of Leeds star defender Pascal Struijk remains uncertain, with multiple Premier League clubs, including Champions League contenders Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur, expressing interest in him. This puts pressure on Leeds to act quickly in the transfer market to secure an adequate replacement should Struijk depart West Yorkshire ahead of the new season.

After four strong seasons in the Bundesliga with Union Berlin, Leite is nearing his prime and could provide a valuable defensive option for head coach Daniel Farke in the upcoming campaign.