The 2017/18 campaign has been a poor one for Leeds United, who have failed to build on last season’s seventh placed finish and are an outfit currently drifting towards a mid-table finish under Paul Heckingbottom.  

Ultimately, Leeds’ playing squad aren’t good enough, with the Whites missing players who have experience in the Sky Bet Championship, particularly in defence.

Andrea Radrizzani has delivered some harsh comments on Leeds’ playing squad, with it looking likely that there will be an overhaul of an underperforming playing squad during the summer.

There are eight fixtures of the Championship season remaining, with some members of Leeds’ squad playing for their future under Heckingbottom following next week’s international break.

Here at FLW, we look towards the summer and identify some players we believe Leeds should be targeting, creating a new-look XI that we believe could challenge for promotion in the Championship this time next year…

Ruddy is Wolves’ current goalkeeper, with the ex-England international helping Nuno Espirito Santo’s side to the brink of the title.

It could well be worth Leeds pursuing a deal for Ruddy in the summer, as Wolves might be tempted to let him go if they are in the Premier League.

Ayling has been magnificent for Leeds, and his season-ending injury in early 2018 has cost the Whites.

When fit, he will be straight back into the side.

Batth is another member of Wolves’ current squad that could be sacrificed if promotion is achieved.

The 27-year-old could be perfect alongside Pontus Jansson.

Jansson will attract interest in the summer, but Radrizzani needs to avoid the temptation of cashing-in.

The Whites need Jansson to move forwards next year.

De Bock has been far from convincing since arriving at Elland Road, but given time to acclimatise, he could be good for Leeds.

With a big contract behind him, Leeds need to give the 25-year-old a chance at the start of next season.

When fully fit, Vieira is arguably Leeds’ best midfielder.

Having the teenager at his best next season will be key.

Since his arrival at Elland Road, Forshaw has been magnificent.

The midfielder is the standout candidate to captain this side.

The Benfica star is reportedly on Leeds’ radar, as Radrizzani looks to mirror Wolves’ transfer strategy.

Landing the 21-year-old would be a major coup.

Like Jansson, Saiz will attract attention in the summer, but Leeds have to prove to the 27-year-old they are building a side to challenge for promotion.

Hernandez’s current deal expires at Elland Road in the summer, but Leeds need to tie him down for at least another 12 months.

The 32-year-old’s experience could be key.

Winnall’s impressive loan spell with Derby County has been cut short by injury, but Leeds need to make a move to sign him permanently from Sheffield Wednesday.

The striker previously worked with Heckingbottom at Barnsley and should certainly be on Leeds’ radar.