After Leeds United were shocked and humbled on their own turf by Derby County last week as they were dumped out of the play-offs, the transfer window signals a real chance to restore some optimism.

The club have been heavily criticised at times this season for their lacklustre nature when it comes to making the right choices in transfer situations.

In the summer, Patrick Bamford arrived and has proven to be a useful addition but the likes of Lewis Baker, Jamal Blackman and Izzy Brown certainly did not do the same.

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January saw just one new arrival with Kiko Casilla making the move from Real Madrid although it also brought us deadline day drama with Swansea City winer Dan James.

They must now get it right from the start and, judging by some early rumours, there is a two-step plan that would give them a real chance of success.

Two big names have already been linked with moves away from Elland Road: Pontus Jansson and Kalvin Phillips.

Football Insider reported that centre-back and fan favourite Jansson may be on the move after an apparent falling out with Marcelo Bielsa, whilst Team Talk report Newcastle United are the latest club to register their interest Phillips.

In an ideal world, both would probably stay. But if Leeds want to have a successful transfer window, building funds could be very helpful.

And it should be Jansson who is sold. He is clearly a great personality to have in the dressing room and around the club and his chest thumping and tough tackles have been responsible for many decibels in Elland Road this season.

But Phillips is probably the most important player Leeds have. He was an absolute colossus in the middle of the field and brought a crucial element of calm to Bielsa's relentless set-up.

Whilst Jansson put in some outstanding displays, there were also many where you were left baffled as to what was running through his mind for 90 minutes.

Finding a solid Championship standard centre-back is not the easiest job in the world, but it is a whole lot easier than replacing a holding midfielder of Phillips' quality.

Cash in on Jansson and use the money to build a team around the club's brightest academy product in years.