Leeds United head into the January window knowing they need a number of additions to help in their battle against relegation. Jesse Marsch's side starting the current Premier League campaign in fine form, but a slump in form saw them drawn into the bottom three.
An upturn in fortune prior to the winter break for the World Cup moved the Whites away from any immediate danger and back towards safety. Whites supporters have already made their feelings clear towards owner Andrea Radrizzani and the need to invest in January after a torrid final warm-up game against AS Monaco.
Needless to say, the Leeds hierarchy will be focussing heavily on the January window, but will also have contingency plans in place for next summer. A lot of that will hinge on which division the Whites are playing in.
READ MORE: Matheus Cunha on 'big mentality' role of Julen Lopetegui in Wolves move amid Leeds United links
With that in mind, Leeds Live has taken a look at four players who Leeds could sign for free next summer in an attempt to save the club millions.
Jordan Zemura
Bournemouth left-back Jordan Zemura shone for the Cherries in the Championship last season and has been an ever present for the Premier League new boys this season. The 23-year-old defender kept Leif Davis out of Scott Parker's promotion winning side last season.
The Whites know they need to add strength and depth to their defence, with it currently being one of the worst in the Premier League. The Zimbabwe international has been steady for the Cherries since their return to the top flight and Leeds could do much worse than take a gamble on the young defender.
Tosin Adarabioyo
Leeds United were linked with a move for Tosin Adarabioyo back in 2020, with the former Manchester City defender joining Fulham instead. The 25-year-old centre-half has been a regular for Marco Silva's side since returning to the top flight and could breath some new life into the Whites back line.
The defender has made 81 appearances for the Cottagers since signing from City. He was regarded as one of the best defenders in the division as won the Championship last season and was named in the Team of the Year.
Adama Traore
Leeds United's ongoing linked to Spanish forward Adama Traore has been a transfer saga for the ages. Will they or won't they?
That question has been on Whites' supporters lips for the past two windows and there's no sign of speculation going away any time soon. Traore can be a nightmare for Premier League defenders, but has struggled to find the form he once showed at Wolves.
The arrival of Julen Lopetegui could give the Spaniard one last chance to earn a new deal at Molineux, or they could try to cash in on the winger this January. The speedy forward would give Leeds United a different dynamic going forward and could be a bargain buy next summer, if Marsch is able to get the best out of him.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
Liverpool midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has struggled with injuries throughout his entire career, which is in part, why his contract with the Reds is approaching the final few months of his contract. The former Arsenal midfielder has won the Premier League and Champions League with Jurgen Klopp's side and would add a wealth of experience to Leeds' side.
However, there can be no denying a move for the Liverpool midfielder would be a gamble. Oxlade-Chamberlain has shown he can play in a high pressing side, similar to Leeds United under Marcelo Bielsa and Marsch, but injury worries are the last thing the Whites want to inherit.
It would be a game and wages may prove a stumbling block, but if you cater in the lack of transfer fee, it may be a surprise deal Leeds look to complete.
READ NEXT:
- Leeds United player ratings with Robin Koch's display emphasised by second-half collapse
- Leeds United's Robin Koch and Brenden Aaronson shine in Monaco defeat but absentees a concern
- 'Haaland up next' - Leeds United supporters react in unison after Monaco drubbing
- Leeds United hit with illness as Rene Maric gives fitness update ahead of Man City clash
- Leeds United supporters highlight lack of depth after Monaco team news
