Having avoided relegation from the Premier League by finishing 14th last season, Leeds United enter the new term with their sights set firmly on achieving sustained top-flight success.
With the 49ers as owners providing firm backing for manager Daniel Farke and sanctioning significant signings, while work continues on increasing Elland Road’s capacity to 53,000, there exists genuine optimism in West Yorkshire.
Betting firm bet365 lists Leeds United as 500/1 outsiders for the Premier League championship, 150/1 to claim one of the top two positions. For supporters harbouring ambitions of a push towards continental competition, the club is available at 14/1 for a top-five finish while relegation stands at 6/1.
In the market for Leeds’ leading goalscorer, Dominic Calvert-Lewin heads the betting at 4/11, with new arrivals Harry Wilson and Noah Okafor both offered at 7/1.
Insight from our Leeds United correspondent, Isaac Johnson
The 49ers, who hold a minority stake, experienced the club’s decline following Marcelo Bielsa’s inaugural Premier League campaign and fully recognise the dangers of second-season syndrome. Their priority is clear: the coming two years must deliver stability.
Consequently, preserving top-flight status next season would constitute achievement. However, finishing below the 14th position secured last term would represent disappointment, if not catastrophe. The playing staff shows clear signs of improvement.
Securing Harry Wilson on a free transfer represents excellent business, while the expenditure of a club-record £40million on James Trafford – widely tipped as prospective England’s first-choice goalkeeper – could herald a new chapter for Leeds.
Optimism pervades Leeds at present. Daniel Farke, who appeared close to dismissal in November, enjoys his highest ever popularity among supporters. Construction to expand Elland Road to 53,000 seats progresses, and supporters have a squad worthy of their affection.
Backers are optimistic about a European push. Realistically, this appears premature – a view shared by those within the club. Nevertheless, a top-ten position remains achievable.
Opening Five Matches
Nottingham Forest (Away) — Saturday, 22 August
Brentford (Home) — Sunday, 30 August
Brighton & Hove Albion (Away) — Saturday, 5 September
Newcastle United (Home) — Monday, 14 September
Crystal Palace (Home) — Saturday, 19 September
Incoming Transfers
James Trafford – from Burnley
Harry Wilson – from Fulham
Tarik Muharemovic – from Sassuolo
Outgoing Transfers
Illan Meslier – to Arsenal
Joe Gelhardt – to Hull City
Karl Darlow – to Manchester United
Pascal Struijk – to Brighton
Jack Harrison – to New England
Leeds United Season Betting Odds with bet365
Premier League Victory 500/1
To Finish Among Top Two 150/1
To Finish Among Top Five 14/1
FA Cup Triumph 33/1
EFL (Carabao) Cup Triumph 33/1
Leading Team Goalscorer
Dominic Calvert-Lewin (4/11)
Harry Wilson (7/1)
Noah Okafor (7/1)
All details accurate as of publication date.
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