Leeds accelerate move to agree 'big-money' defender deal after confirmed news

Leeds United are accelerating plans to sign a new centre-back after agreeing to sell Pascal Struijk to Brighton earlier this week.

The 26-year-old had been a key part of Daniel Farke’s side, but with just 12 months left on his contract, the decision was made to cash in on him for a fee of £20million.

However, Leeds are determined not to weaken their squad this summer, and have identified a number of potential replacements who could be available.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Leeds are now planning to step up their interest, with the funds from Sruijk’s sale to be reinvested.

Farke has been outspoken about his demands for the board to show ambition and be active in the transfer market, and they are keen to back the boss.

As a result, Leeds are expected to accelerate their transfer plans in their near future, with work already ongoing behind the scenes at Elland Road.

Why did Leeds decide to sell Pascal Struijk?

Brown told Football Insider on 29 June that Georginio Rutter played a key role in convincing Struijk to join Brighton once it became clear that Leeds were willing to sell.

With just one year remaining on his contract, Leeds made the decision to let him go, and the £20m fee now means they can put the funds towards signing a new centre-back.

Leeds are believed to be willing to spend big on key positions this summer, and the addition of a new centre-back has now risen up their list of priorities.

"Leeds now are going to need a new centre-back, they can't sell and not replace him," Brown told Football Insider.

"They don't want to strengthen the squad, so any players who are allowed to leave will be replaced with better players, that's what they have to do if they want to improve the squad.

"They got a good fee for Struijk, that's always helpful and it can go towards bringing in his replacement.

"Farke has been clear about what he wants, he wants backing, he wants them to show ambition and spend big, so I expect Leeds will be prepared to do that now.

"There are a number of players on their radar, the recruitment team have been working to idenfity players, and now they're going to have to make a move."

Which centre-backs are on Leeds' radar this summer?

Even before Struijk was allowed to leave Leeds, the club have been assessing a number of potential additions as they aim to bolster Farke's defensive options.

Leeds are hoping to improve upon a strong first season back in the Premier League, and believe major improvements are needed in key areas.

Football Insider revealed on 16 June that Leeds are plotting a move to sign Sporting CP centre-back Ousmane Diomande in a statement of their ambitions in the summer window.

The 22-year-old has a £68.5million release clause in his contract, while Crystal Palace were quoted £80million during their pursuit of him in last summer's transfer window.

Leeds are believed to have the funds available to pull off a deal, and following Struijk's departure, they may now be prepared to accelerate a move.