Danny Murphy has claimed that he expects Leeds United to ‘spend big’ this summer ahead of the departures of Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha, as he told talkSPORT.
The former Premier League midfielder thinks Leeds will spend in excess of £100 million and if they don’t, then it would be ‘suicidal’ in their quest to better their relegation fight from last season.
The Whites survived the drop to the Championship on the last day of the Premier League season, after their win at Brentford, added with Newcastle’s win at Burnley, ensured they kept their place alongside the big boys.
But this summer could prove to be difficult because two of the club’s star players could head for the exit door, numerous clubs are keen to add Raphinha to their ranks, and whilst that wasn’t difficult enough, one of their own is edging closer to joining Manchester City.
Nonetheless, putting that potential doom and gloom aside, Murphy expects an exciting window, in terms of incomings, for those in Yorkshire this summer.
“They have made a couple of signings already,” said Murphy. “There is obviously a willingness to back him. What chances has he (Marsch) got if they (Leeds owners) don’t?
“There was an obvious lack of depth in the forward areas when Bamford was injured. They did get away with it a little bit.
“But I would imagine Leeds United would spend, if they get that £100 million (for Phillips and Raphinha), and a bit more maybe. I think we will see Leeds spend big this summer. It would be suicidal not to spend that money they are getting it. They have to.”
DEPTH NEEDED ACROSS THE PITCH
The issue for Marsch is that he has to add depth to the squad, first and foremost, because Marcelo Bielsa simply didn’t like to work with a lot of players.
So, even if Raphinha and Phillips stay, those in Yorkshire need close to double figures, in terms of players, through the club’s transfer doors this summer.
Therefore, losing them both, life becomes more difficult because they may need more than one face to replace each player.
Either way, whatever calls are made, Marsch has a tough task on his hand, which makes their start to the new season even more important.
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