Ilia Gruev is being linked with a shock Leeds United exit this summer.
Having lost the play-off final to Southampton nine days ago, Leeds were quick to acknowledge that some kay players would have to depart to ensure they remain compliant with PSR.
Crysencio Summerville, Willy Gnonto, Archie Gray and Georginio Rutter were among those touted for an exit in the immediate days after the final, but Gruev certainly wasn’t one you would’ve expected to depart.
However, it has been reported that Champions League finalists Borussia Dortmund are among the sides keen on signing him this summer, and were even in attendance at Wembley.
It is said Leeds would be open to offers of a ‘certain amount’, and having paid around £5 million to sign him only last summer, given his age and contract length, £10m+ could be good business.
If he was to leave, it would certainly leave Leeds in the market for a replacement and here are three they should take a look at.
Pierre Ewkah – Sunderland
Leeds could look to raid a fellow Championship side for Gruev‘s replacement with Sunderland’s Pierre Ewkah fitting the bill as someone who could actually be an upgrade.
Ekwah is just 22-years-old but has impressed in his two seasons in the Championship at the Black Cats since joining from .West Ham United
Having scored five goals last season, he would offer more of a goal threat than Gruev, and is also someone who could actually play alongside Ethan Ampadu, unlike the Bulgarian.
Ewkah is also considerably more progressive when it comes to his passing. As per FBRef, Ewkah averages 6.45 progressive passes per 90 in comparison to Gruev’s 4.36.
He also averages more shots per 90 (1.82 vs 0.3), though isn’t quite as prolific defensively, with Gruev completing more interceptions and tackles in a match. However, with Ampadu alongside him, that shouldn’t matter too much. Ewkah would be a great optio
