If Leeds have ambitions of staying up, the hothouse atmosphere of Elland Road could hold the key, writes Phil McNulty.

The stars of English football gathered under the grand lights of the Manchester Opera House on Tuesday night, as the Professional Footballers' Association hosted its annual awards.Celebrating the

Leeds were promoted as Championship winners last season, while Everton finished 13th in the Premier League. Each club added eight new faces to their respective roster since last season as Leeds looks to maintain status in England’s top flight and Everton looks to at a minimum to crack the Top 10.

As Leeds close in on the signing of Switzerland international winger Noah Okafor from AC Milan, pending his medical, it seems supporters are still wondering when or if another pure centre forward will arrive at Elland Road.

If a recent report from the Italian outlet Tuttosport is believed to be true, rumoured Leeds United target Mehdi Taremi has been labelled as surplus to requirements at Inter Milan. New boss Cristian

Sunderland have tabled an offer of £2.59 million a year for Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi, with the Colombian centre-back keen on a move to the Premier League. Lucumi has also been linked with Juventus and Leeds United.

Drivers have been warned about road closures and heavy traffic around the Leeds Festival site during the Bank Holiday weekend. The event, which takes place from Thursday to Sunday, will see performances from artists including Chappell Roan, Travis Scott and Hozier.

Organisers are urging festival-goers of the risk that may pose such as rising drug risks, sexual assault support and on-site welfare zones. Here's where to get help if you're attending

Noah Okafor is on his way to England, where he’ll sign his contract with Leeds United today.Milan striker Okafor is expected to complete a permanent move to Leeds today.Okafor ready to sign Leeds