With promotion now in the bag, focus is quickly turning to the summer transfer window for Leeds United and The 49ers’ ability to put together a squad Daniel Farke can keep in the Premier League.
There have been murmurs that Leeds might replace Daniel Farke even after promotion and possibly, a league title. Simon Grayson rubbished the idea that The 49ers could sack Farke, but the pressure is on.
Paraag Marathe praised Farke in his promotion statement, but also told fans that work has been put in place in the event of promotion to deliver a squad capable of fighting for Premier League survival.
Before making any new signings, even if Burnley are set to complete permanent deals for Jaidon Anthony and Marcus Edwards, The 49ers and Farke need to make a few decisions no the current playing squad.
Josuha Guilavogui is one of five players set to leave Leeds United
As things stand, three players are out of contract while two loans will come to an end. Leeds are expected to sign Manor Solomon though the jury is out over whether Leeds will bring in Joe Rothwell permanently.
Guilavogui joined Leeds in October of the 2024-25 season, as an emergency free agent signing to cover the injuries to duo Ilia Gruev and Ethan Ampadu. He posted on Instagram after Leeds won promotion.
The former Mainz, Wolfsburg and Atletico Madrid star’s Instagram post read: “WE ARE PREMIER LEAGUE.
This team. These players. This club. One of a kind. Marching On Together always.”
Willy Gnonto orders Leeds to hand Guilavogui a new contract
Guilavogui played 17 times for Leeds, two starts in The FA Cup and 15 appearances as a substitute. The midfielder has matched Vinnie Jones’ record of going unbeaten in his first 15, even if he’s not started.
But it is Guilavogui’s character that has won the love of fans. His constant smile, his posts on social media and the clear impact he has on the Leeds squad – a father figure-like character to the younger players.
One of those is Willy Gnonto, who responded to Guilavogui’s post by commenting “one more season”. Joel Piroe echoed Gnonto’s statement, urging The 49ers to hand the versatile ace a two-year contract.
Focus will be on the final two games of the season as Leeds host Bristol City next Monday, before the trip to Plymouth Argyle on May 3. If Leeds win both games, they win the title – regardless of Burnley’s results.
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