Leeds United secured their return to the Premier League for the 2025-26 season by winning the Championship title, clinched with a 2-1 victory over Plymouth Argyle in May 2025. As they rejoin England’s top tier, the Whites are striving to regain their footing.
Daniel Farke has introduced new players this season, setting ambitious goals for the team. However, they’ve been embroiled in a battle for survival since the early weeks. Currently, Leeds sits 15th in the league, just four points clear of the relegation zone as the season nears its conclusion. Maintaining their Premier League status is crucial, not only for the club’s reputation but also for retaining their top talents.
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Struijk Draws Premier League Attention Ahead of Summer Transfer Window
As reported by Pete O’Rourke, Leeds United is making every effort to retain centre-back Pascal Struijk this summer. Clubs such as Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa, and Newcastle United have all shown interest in the 26-year-old defender. Leeds is optimistic about keeping him if they remain in the Premier League; however, a return to the Championship could make them vulnerable to lucrative offers.
Struijk’s performance this season speaks for itself. He has participated in 28 Premier League matches, recording 2,431 minutes on the pitch. With one assist and a 6.9 average FotMob rating, he has only accumulated three yellow cards this season. His defensive statistics are impressive as well, with averages of 6.32 clearances, 1.11 tackles, and 1.03 interceptions per 90 minutes. Additionally, his versatility as a left-footed centre-back capable of playing at left-back or defensive midfield adds to his value. With a contract extending until 2027 and a €20 million valuation on Transfermarkt, it’s evident why Struijk is attracting attention from top-flight competitors.
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Is Struijk Indispensable for Leeds United, Regardless of Their Division?
LEEDS, ENGLAND – MARCH 21: Pascal Struijk of Leeds United looks on during the Premier League match against Brentford at Elland Road on March 21, 2026. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
The answer is a resounding yes, and it goes beyond mere statistics. Struijk embodies the type of player Leeds United cannot afford to lose. His understanding of the game, composure under pressure, and tactical awareness are irreplaceable assets that can be costly to find in the transfer market. Clubs like Aston Villa and Newcastle can offer more stability, complicating conversations between Leeds and the player.
Timing also plays a crucial role. Should Leeds United be relegated and lose Struijk, their chances of bouncing back into the Premier League would diminish significantly, potentially leading them into a vicious cycle that ensnares many ambitious clubs. Farke has managed to maintain the team’s competitive edge at 15th, but the squad is thin and leaves little room for error. Therefore, securing Struijk’s future should be the top priority for the board, regardless of the league they find themselves in come August.