Leeds United are preparing for another promotion challenge this season.
Daniel Farke’s side almost lost out on promotion the last time around. The Whites finished just a few points behind winners Leicester City, but lost in the play-off final against Southampton.
The German manager is more than capable of leading a side to the top flight, but this season he hopes to finish in the top two and avoid the lottery of play-offs.
Roberts, 28, spent some of last season on loan at Elland Road. He made 14 Premier League matches for the Clarets before transferring to Yorkshire to play 15 games for Farke’s team.
He was not the first choice right back for much of his tenure with the Whites, but he is expected to play a larger role if he returns this summer.
According to The Athletic, Leeds United are interested in signing Roberts on a permanent basis, but his future is greatly influenced by who takes over Burnley once Vincent Kompany leaves.
Looking ahead
Both Burnley and Leeds United will be looking to move up this year. Burnley was relegated last season after failing to adjust to the demands of the Premier League, but like they were two seasons before, their team is projected to be among the strongest in the second division.
Leeds United has a busy summer ahead. There’s a potential they’ll lose some major names, but the Whites appear to have already started deciding who they want to bring in to improve their ranks.
Roberts could leave Turf Moor permanently this summer, but he will undoubtedly seek assurances about game time wherever he ends up.
A chance to pounce
One could say that the Championship this season does not appear to be as strong as it was last year.
Burnley, Luton Town, and Sheffield United are the three relegated teams, and while all three should be strong teams, they do not appear to be as dangerous as Southampton, Leeds United, and Leicester City were a year ago.
The Whites were uneven at times last season, which cost them a lot. However, if they take off this time, it may be impossible to catch them this year.
It will be intriguing to observe how both clubs manage their summer business and whether they can reach an agreement on the Roberts deal within the next few months.