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Laurie Martin

Leeds United's best XI after summer transfer window

With the summer transfer window now shut, Leeds United's squad certainly has a very different look compared to 12 months ago.

Three first-team regulars from last season - Kalvin Phillips, Raphina and Dan James (loan) - have left the club, and eight players have been drafted in this summer as Jesse Marsch looks to build a team in his image.

With eight new arrivals at Elland Road, including a deadline day addition in the form of Wilfried Gnonto, it begs the question: What is Leeds United's best XI?

Illan Meslier remains Leeds' number one. Manchester United reportedly had the Frenchman on their shortlist of goalkeeper targets, but the Whites kept hold of their man.

READ MORE: Mixed opinions as Leeds United supporters react to signing of Wilfried Gnonto

Marsch has named the same back four in every league game so far this season. Rasmus Kristensen was the only defensive addition this summer, and it remains to be seen whether he keeps Luke Ayling out of team when the vice-captain returns from injury.

Robin Koch and Diego Llorente have formed a solid centre-back partnership at the heart of the defence. Liam Cooper hasn't been in a Premier League matchday squad this season due to injury, but even when he does return, it will be difficult to for the captain to force his way into the side.

Many Leeds supporters expected the club to sign a left-back this summer given Leif Davis' departure and Junior Firpo's injury problems. However, the Whites decided not to recruit in that position, with Pascal Struijk filling in admirably for the start of the season. Firpo is set to return to action over the next couple of weeks, but may have to bide his time when it comes to being a regular starter.

Tyler Adams and Marc Roca have started every league game so far, and form Leeds' best midfield partnership, although Mateusz Klich and Adam Forshaw are solid options.

The big talking point is who starts in the four attacking positions when everybody is fit. Luis Sinisterra, Brenden Aaronson, Jack Harrison, Gnonto, Rodrigo, Patrick Bamford and Joe Gelhardt are all vying for four spots in the forward line.

Sinisterra made his first Premier League start against Everton, scoring on his debut, while Aaronson and Harrison have both enjoyed impressive starts to the season. Sinisterra, Aaronson and Harrison probably make up Leeds' strongest attacking midfield trio, but who plays in front of them?

Rodrigo bagged four goals in his first three games, but now faces up to a month on the side-lines after dislocating his shoulder against Everton. Bamford has struggled with injury during the opening weeks of the campaign, but may now get a run of games with Rodrigo on the treatment table. There are question marks as to how much deadline day arrival Gnonto will feature this season, while Gelhardt is yet to start a league game this term.

Bamford may get a starting berth over the next month, but when Rodrigo is back fit and firing, it could be a real battle as to who leads the line for the Whites.

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