Leeds United's Championship return is almost upon us.
Marcelo Bielsa and his men head to South Wales on Sunday for their first game in more than three months as they continue their promotion bid against Cardiff City,
But as preparations continue for that game, Marcelo Bielsa will know the importance of preparing for next season, when Leeds are hoping to be back in the promised land.
Leeds continue to be linked with a number of players and with that in mind, we run you through the latest rumours surrounding Elland Road below.
Ayala ruled out
Middlesbrough’s Daniel Ayala is not understood to be a target for Leeds United in the next transfer window.
The 29-year-old’s contract expires at Riverside Stadium in two weeks and he has been in and out of the media as a Whites target since last autumn.
However, LeedsLive understands, at no stage has director of football Victor Orta seriously pursued a reunion with a defender he shared time with on Teesside.
Reports surfaced again yesterday which suggested Ayala had refused to a small extension in order to play out the rescheduled Championship run-in, amid United interest.
But it's understood that interest is non-existent.
Rose linked with Leeds
Leeds United are being linked with a move for Coventry City defender Michael Rose.
The 24-year-old is said to be on Marcelo Bielsa's radar after an impressive campaign with the Sky Blues, winning the League One title.
Leeds are expected to strengthen their back-line with a number of signings ahead of what they hope will be their first season back in the Premier League.
And it's being widely reported that Rose could be the latest player to become a target.
The centre-back joined Coventry from Ayr United last summer.
Leeds boosted in Erras race
Leeds have received a boost in their reported interest in 1.FC Nurnberg midfielder Patrick Erras.
According to German outlet Fussball Transfers, Erras is hoping for a move to England this summer.
That's despite three clubs from Germany's second-tier expressing an interest.
Brentford and QPR are also said to be interested, along with Leeds.
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