Already, Leeds United are being linked with a multitude of new players this summer and Arsenal could now help The Whites strike a deal for one player said to be near the top of the list.
One priority for Daniel Farke and The 49ers will be to sign a new centre-back. Leeds currently have Joe Rodon as a mainstay, while Pascal Struijk is first choice next to him, but the vice-captain is often injured.
Ethan Ampadu often fills in for Struijk and finished the season doing so, but that means Leeds lack the skipper’s presence in midfield. Some argue that Ampadu is actually better in the middle of the defence.
Max Wober is an option, but Wober is expected to leave in the summer. Whatever happens with Wober and whatever Farke’s view on Ampadu, Leeds need a centre-back or two ahead of a return to the top tier.
Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Leeds want to sign Marseille captain Leonardo Balerdi
Farke has sent Leeds scouts to watch Marseille ace Leonardo Balerdi. The six-time Argentina international, described as “extraordinary” by Roberto De Zerbi, helped clinch Champions League football on Saturday.
Leeds are planning a bid for Balerdi who is rated at a whopping £38m. The defender’s stance is that he would be open to a Premier League move, but the chance to play in the Champions League will tempt.
Of course, Marseille will not want to lose one of their best players without finding a replacement. One option is Cristiano Ronaldo’s teammate Aymeric Laporte at Al Nassr, but Arsenal could help Leeds.
Photo by Carlos Sipán/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
Photo by Carlos Sipán/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
Why Arsenal can help Leeds sign Leonardo Balerdi this summer
According to a report from Foot Mercato, Marseille are interested in Arsenal’s Poland international Jakub Kiwior. The defender is currently playing for Arsenal, but only because first-choice Gabriel is out injured.
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Kiwior could be tempted by a move to De Zerbi’s side as he would become first choice, either alongside Balerdi or as his replacement. Whether Arsenal are willing to accept Kiwior’s exit remains to be seen.
Arsenal allowing Kiwior to leave The Emirates for Marseille hands the French side a replacement for Balerdi and that loosens their stance on keeping the Leeds target, allowing The 49ers to make a move.