It's set to be one of the most exciting summers in recent memory for Leeds United.

The club ended their 16-year exile from the Premier League by securing promotion from the Championship in emphatic style.

Leeds won the league title and that has set them up perfectly for a pivotal couple of months as they look to get Marcelo Bielsa's squad ready for life in the fast lane.

The Whites will be determined not to make an immediate return to the second tier next term, but if they're to do that then they'll need to strengthen.

Various different positions have already been tipped as areas for improvement, however one spot appears to be a real focus.

That's the position of attacking midfielder - a role which has seen several players already linked with a switch to Elland Road.

However one fresh name has emerged as a potential contender, and that's Thiago Almada.

According to Juan Arango, Leeds United are plotting a move for the South American starlet.

p1edrl9aff14r114jluutokq115q9.jpg

Almada, who plays for Argentine side Velez, is regarded as one of the hottest young talents in the continent after bursting into the first team fold.

Valued at £16.2m by Transfermarkt, the 19-year-old is said to be attracting plenty of admiring glances this summer.

The Daily Mail have previously reported that Manchester United, Arsenal and Manchester City are also keen on a move.

But while the starlet is perfectly lined up for a bidding war, it appear that Velez's hands are tied with Almada having a release clause of £20million in his contract.

While agreeing a fee looks like it could be relatively simply, the challenge for Leeds United will be convincing the player that Elland Road is the best place for him to develop.

p1edrlci0ockr170eung8sp16lab.jpg

If they can do that then this could be a very exciting signing for the newly-promoted side.

GIVEMESPORT'S Phil Spencer says...

What a signal of intent this would be.

Leeds United are back in the big time and they certainly mean business as they set their sights on avoiding relegation next term.

If the Whites are to stay up then they'll certainly need to spend some decent many on 5-6 strong additions.

A number 10 is certainly one of the positions required.

p1edrn11pg164n4oma8f1cg1c2ld.jpg

While Pablo Hernandez will be key next term, the Whites have struggled without the Spaniard in their side and so by signing a second option it means that Leeds will be well-equipped for the challenge ahead.

With regards to Thiago Almada, it's certainly a signing that ticks all of the boxes, but whether they can trump the Premier League's biggest names to his signature is up for debate.

Should Leeds be able to offer assurances of first team football, that could very easily be a competitive advantage.