Villarreal showed concrete interest in the 26-year-old Dutch defender Pascal Struijk, but Leeds United opted to keep the player in order to maintain squad continuity and quality. Leeds United rejected offers not only for Struijk but also for Ao Tanaka and Joel Piroe, a decision confirmed by the club's managing director, Robbie Evans. He highlighted that these players had been crucial to the team's success in the previous year and were vital for their future achievements. Evans mentioned that the club preferred to retain these players unless selling them would lead to something truly extraordinary, emphasizing their quality and familiarity with the coach's strategy. This choice was made despite the opportunity to boost the club's transfer budget. Struijk's contract with Leeds is due to expire in June 2027, and his market value is estimated at €18 million by Transfermarkt.