Leeds United are preparing for a big season ahead.

After 16 years away from the top flight the Yorkshire side are hoping that they can enjoy a good season in the Premier League.

Thankfully they've got off to a good start.

Despite falling to a narrow defeat against reigning champions Liverpool on the opening weekend, Leeds secured their first three points of the season against Fulham last week.

The hope now is that they can add to it.

Making the step up from the Championship is a big challenge, and that's why Marcelo Bielsa has been so keen to strengthen his squad.

Robin Koch and Rodrigo have already joined the club, while a number of young stars have also made the switch to Elland Road.

Diego Llorente looks like he'll be next through the door, with the defender all-but certain to join the club.

p1eivnslcljh1jd61re91unl13nc9.jpg

But there's still time for more deals.

One position that the club are targeting as advanced playmaker to add creativity to the team.

According to reports from Football Insider, one player on the list of targets is Ross Barkley.

The Chelsea midfielder has fallen down the pecking order under Frank Lampard and that means that he faces an uncertain future.

His situation has also been heightened by the additions of players such as Hakim Ziyech and Kai Havertz.

p1eivnur7s11krd7kvvi1cgh1o69b.jpg

The Blues have also been linked with a move for Declan Rice which could see Barkley move even further down the list at Stamford Bridge.

It's claimed that one option available to Leeds could be a loan switch for the England international, however they may face competition from other clubs in the top flight.

GIVEMESPORT'S Phil Spencer says...

This would certainly be a turn up for the books.

Leeds United are certainly on the lookout for creativity in midfield and that's something that is only going to strengthen in the coming weeks.

Whether that moves ends up being for Ross Barkley, however, remains to be seen.

p1eivo1t1fuq41krk1j98shanaid.jpg

Valued at £19.35m by Transfermarkt, he Chelsea man is undoubtedly a top quality player, but I'm not sure if I can see him moving to Elland Road.

In all honesty it would be a surprise to see Barkley leave Stamford Bridge at all.

With players such as Kai Havertz looking like he's going to play a key role this term, Barkley certainly faces an uphill battle to be involved.

But if he can get his head down then I'm sure that he has a future in West London, and that means that a move to Elland Road is unlikely.