£4m Leeds United star warns Daniel Farke he will only stay if promotion to the Premier League is secured

Sheffield United meanwhile, have lost three in a row and have dropped into third on 83. Ally McCoist says Sheffield United can still catch up, even if Chris Wilder believes his Sheffield United side have “let it slip”.

Promotion will see Leeds forced to invest heavily on their squad, given Ipswich and Southampton both spent north of £100m during 2024-25 and have still failed to hold onto a place in England’s top tier.

Ilia Gruev subject of numerous approaches ahead of summer

A £4m signing from Werder Bremen in the summer of 2023, Gruev has gone on to be an instrumental part of the Leeds side even if he is not a regular starter. He hardly started during his first six months.

But the second half of last season saw him become crucial, one of the first names on the team sheet and scoring a free-kick in the play-off semi-finals. Gruev started the season for Leeds as Farke’s first choice.

However, injury saw him struggle to start after a few months out. A fringe player when everyone is fit, it appears clubs are considering a move for the Bulgaria star – with numerous sides already in contact.

TeamTalk though, share Gruev’s stance on his future. They say that if Leeds are promoted, Gruev remains committed to Leeds but if it is going to be a third year in the Championship, Gruev will seek an exit.

Julian Weigl interest may make Gruev’s mind up for him

With Gruev’s place in the starting line-up and squad already under threat while in the Championship, the chances are he is going to struggle to start in the Premier League – even more so if signings are made.

Leeds have made initial contact with Julian Weigl, a player that Farke loves having worked alongside the Germany international at Gladbach. Farke has said Weigl is a player improves almost every team.

Sharing many traits with Gruev, Weigl’s possible arrival at Elland Road this summer would see Gruev fall further down the pecking order. Perhaps, Gruev’s decision to stay or go may be made for him by Leeds.