Leeds United head coach Jesse Marsch 'will lean a lot on Victor Orta' as he looks to welcome reinforcements to Elland Road in the summer, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

Marsch is preparing for his first transfer window since being appointed as the Whites' head coach just 24 hours after Marcelo Bielsa's sacking in February.

Who have Leeds been linked with?

According to Football Insider, Leeds have stepped up their interest in RB Leipzig central defender Josko Gvardiol.

The report suggests the Yorkshire giants have been tracking the 10-cap Croatia international for more than two years and, having come close to sealing his arrival in the summer of 2020, director of football Orta and his recruitment team have continued to keep close tabs.

Leeds are not the only Premier League side hoping to lure Gvardiol away from the Bundesliga as Tottenham Hotspur are also understood to be mulling over whether to make a move.

American Marsch is reportedly keen to link-up with fellow countrymen Brenden Aaronson and Sergino Dest, who are currently on the books of Red Bull Salzburg and Barcelona respectively.

Spanish sources have revealed Barcelona have considered offering Dest in exchange for Whites winger Raphinha, who remains a Nou Camp target.

Erik ten Hag TALKS Man United job! Hear more on The Football Terrace...

What has Pete O'Rourke said about the situation?

O'Rourke believes Marsch will be seeking assistance from Orta when the transfer window reopens for business.

The journalist feels Leeds could succeed in bringing in exciting additions if the duo strike up a fruitful partnership.

O'Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: "I think Jesse Marsch will lean a lot on Victor Orta to try and get the players that he wants to bring into his team for next year.

"If they can all work together in harmony and agree on things, it'll obviously make business easier for Leeds during the summer."

How have Leeds performed under Marsch?

After a worrying start to his reign, which included defeats to Leicester City and Aston Villa, Marsch has gone on to win half of his first six matches at the Leeds helm.

That is no mean feat considering he inherited a squad of players who had lost five of their last six fixtures, conceding 21 goals in the process.

An upturn in form under Marsch's stewardship has allowed Leeds to claw themselves away from the Premier League's relegation zone and they are on the cusp of ensuring they will be in the top flight next season.