Leeds United are reportedly set to hand Dominic Calvert-Lewin a new contract at Elland Road amid interest from Manchester United – but ultimately, it highlights a key shift in mentality.

Calvert-Lewin was a risky addition when Leeds brushed aside Man United, Newcastle and Milan to sign the England striker on a free transfer. The star’s Everton era had been marred by an inability to stay fit.

But that has changed at Leeds. The Whites took a risk by handing him a well-paid, three-year contract, and it has worked. Calvert-Lewin has since scored 20 goals in 49 appearances for Daniel Farke’s outfit.

Man United’s interest emerged earlier this week, before BBC Sport reported that Calvert-Lewin is set to sign a new contract at Elland Road. Details of the deal are undisclosed, but it signals a shift in intent.

Leeds were willing to sell their best under Andrea Radrizzani

Let us take you back to 2022. Leeds knew they needed to refresh their squad after narrowly avoiding relegation. Ultimately, the team was hurtling towards relegation, and investment was required.

Marcelo Bielsa had told then-owner Andrea Radrizzani this before the start of the 2021-22 season. Yet, it fell on deaf ears, with Radrizzani clearly unwilling to put his money where his mouth was and spend big.

In 2021, Leeds signed Junior Firpo and Dan James. Tiny reward for a ninth-placed finish. In 2022, Leeds knew more was needed, and to do that, they needed cash. They offloaded Raphinha and Kalvin Phillips.

The club’s two best players were sold for £100m to Barcelona and Man City. Leeds made many signings, the majority of which failed. Only Brenden Aaronson remains from that summer influx; the jury is still out.

Calvert-Lewin deal shows difference with Marathe at the helm

Marathe was on the board under Radrizzani, but was far from calling the shots. Now, he is at the head of the table, and there is a clear shift in approach. Physically, Leeds are literally expanding the stadium.

But when it comes to selling big players, there seems to be a change, too. Had Man United come calling for the club’s best striker under Radrizzani, a sale would have been likely. No chance, under Marathe.

Not a business, like Radrizzani’s approach. Calvert-Lewin signing a new Leeds deal is proof of that, as is slapping a huge £60m price tag on Tarik Muharemovic’s head, months after he signed on until 2031.

Leeds are growing sustainably this time, not like a lottery winner last time they came up under Bielsa. Marathe is choosing to keep his best players and find investment elsewhere, and fans will be delighted.