Leeds United transfer news: How Marcelo Bielsa’s team could line up featuring World Cup winners Francesco Totti and Gianluigi Buffon
They may not have reached the Premier League but this hasn't stopped the Whites from being linked with some huge names this summer
They say life begins at 40, and a new life in Yorkshire could be on the cards for Italy legends Francesco Totti, 42, and Gianluigi Buffon, 41.
This comes after the pair, who won the World Cup with Italy in 2006, were linked with a move to Championship side Leeds United.
Totti retired from his playing career two years ago but has been out of work since leaving his post as Roma's director in particularly acrimonious circumstances last week.
He cited not having his views taken into consideration as the reason behind his decision to end his 30-year association with the club.
Totti said: "I never had the chance to express myself. I was never involved in a genuine technical project.
"They knew my intentions and what I wanted, to give so much to this club and team, but they never wanted me to, in all honesty. They excluded me from every decision.
"This is far worse than retiring as a player. Leaving Roma is like dying. I feel like it’d be better if I died."
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Meanwhile Buffon, who spent last season with French giants Paris Saint-Germain, is coming to the end of his contract but the goalkeeper is not ready to hang up his gloves just yet.
And now it looks like all roads lead to Leeds, who have emerged as shock contenders to land both Totti AND Buffon in what would surely be the most surprising transfers of the current window.
So marvelbet369.com have taken a look at how Marcelo Bielsa's side could line up if they were to sign both players but sell Kalvin Phillips, who seems set for a switch to Aston Villa if they meet his £30million valuation.
Option 1: 4-3-3
Given they're one of the favourites to win promotion to the Premier League next season, the onus will be on Leeds to attack their opponents.
So Marcelo Bielsa may use a 4-3-3 formation with Totti in the centre.
Totti spent the final years of his Roma career in a false nine role and playing him there could then compliment the faster and more skilful Kemar Roofe and Patrick Bamford, who would play wider but not quite as wingers.
Meanwhile, Buffon would be good competition for Whites goalkeepers Kiko Casilla and Bailey Peacock-Farrell.
Option 2: 4-1-4-1
However, as the season goes on, getting the results will be the priority rather than looking good and this is where Totti's and Buffon's experience could well be utilised.
Leeds may also fancy a cup run so could go for more midfielders in these matches while Totti plays up front on his own.
Patrick Bamford would have to make way for Jack Harrison, with the Manchester City man expected to complete another loan move to Elland Road this summer, according to .
Option 3: 4-2-3-1
If Totti hasn't quite got the legs for a role up top, he could slot into a No.10 role and act as fulcrum for the attack.
He could be an excellent link-man for the forward, whether it be Kemar Roofe or Patrick Bamford.
Ezgjan Alioski would most likely move into a left-wing role until new signings arrive with the likes of Helder Costa and Ryan Kent linked.
Youngster Jack Clarke may well be set for a transfer to Tottenham Hotspur but he may feature regularly next year under Bielsa if he returns on loan.
