5 Realistic Defender Signings for Leeds United in the Premier League
As Leeds United prepares for the 2025–26 season, strengthening the defence remains a key priority for Daniel Farke. In their pursuit of Premier League-ready talent, the club will be targeting defenders who offer experience, versatility, and quality to bolster the Elland Road back line.
Here are five realistic defender signings Leeds United can target this Summer:
Ben Davies (Tottenham Hotspur)
Ben Davies, the 32-year-old Welsh international, has been a dependable figure at Tottenham Hotspur, offering versatility as both a left-back and centre-back. With his contract set to expire this summer, Leeds could potentially secure him on a free transfer. His Premier League experience and ability to adapt across the back line make him an appealing option to strengthen Leeds’ defence.
Key Premier League Stats 24/25:
| Duels Won % | 53.1% |
| Duel Won Per 90 | 5.24 |
| Tackles Won % | 64.7% |
| Dribbled Past Per 90 | 0.55 |
| Market Value | £7 Million |
| Reported Wage | £80,000 per Week |
Vladimír Coufal (West Ham United)
Vladimír Coufal, the 32-year-old Czech right-back, is set to become a free agent on July 1, 2025. Renowned for his defensive solidity and tireless work ethic, Coufal has made over 140 appearances for West Ham United. His potential availability on a free transfer offers Leeds a valuable opportunity to add Premier League experience and depth to their defence without incurring a fee.
Key Premier League Stats 24/25:
| Duels Won % | 50% |
| Duel Won Per 90 | 5.52 |
| Tackles Won % | 68.2% |
| Dribbled Past Per 90 | 1.04 |
| Market Value | £6 Million |
| Reported Wage | £35,000 per Week |
Kyle Walker-Peters (Southampton)
Kyle Walker-Peters, 28, is another defender whose contract is set to expire this summer. With over 200 appearances for Southampton, he brings valuable experience and versatility, capable of playing both right- and left-back. His adaptability and proven track record could draw interest from several Premier League clubs seeking to strengthen their defensive options.
Key Premier League Stats 24/25:
| Duels Won % | 49.8% |
| Duel Won Per 90 | 4.47 |
| Tackles Won % | 65.9% |
| Dribbled Past Per 90 | 0.59 |
| Market Value | £15 Million |
| Reported Wage | £36,000 per Week |
Kostas Tsimikas (Liverpool)
Kostas Tsimikas, 29, has been a reliable deputy to Andy Robertson at Liverpool but is expected to move on this summer as the club looks to refresh its options at left-back. With experience in a high-performing side and the ability to contribute offensively from the left flank, Tsimikas could offer Leeds both defensive stability and attacking support. With two years left on his current Liverpool deal, any move for Tsimikas would require a transfer fee.
Key Premier League Stats 24/25:
| Duels Won % | 57.3% |
| Duel Won Per 90 | 5.08 |
| Tackles Won % | 64.5% |
| Dribbled Past Per 90 | 0.97 |
| Market Value | £16 Million |
| Reported Wage | £75,000 per Week |
Hugo Bueno (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
Previously linked with Leeds in past transfer windows, Hugo Bueno, 22, could be a smart target for Leeds after a solid loan spell at Feyenoord in 2024/25. With Premier League minutes already under his belt at Wolves, he offers a mix of youth, energy, and top-level potential. Bueno has three years remaining on his current Wolves deal, so a transfer fee would be required to complete the deal.
Key Eredivisie Stats 24/25:
| Duels Won % | 56.2% |
| Duel Won Per 90 | 4.41 |
| Tackles Won % | 83.3% |
| Dribbled Past Per 90 | 0.30 |
| Market Value | £7 Million |
| Reported Wage | £10,000 per Week |
Final Thoughts
Leeds United's pursuit of these defenders reflects a strategic approach to building a squad capable of competing in the Premier League. By targeting players with top-flight experience and versatility, the club aims to strengthen its defensive line while maintaining financial prudence. Securing such talents could be pivotal in achieving the club’s goals for the upcoming season.
Which defender do you think is the best fit for Leeds?
