Leeds United are close to completing the transfer of Lille left-back Gabriel Gudmundsson on a relatively modest deal.
Junior Firpo’s emotional farewell was confirmed last week, leaving Elland Road after four years with a Championship winners’ medal and a fully restored reputation as a firm favourite amongst the fans.
His departure leaves a sizeable hole in the squad that needs filling as soon as possible, preferably with someone capable of holding their own in the defensive side of being a left-back in the Premier League.
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Leeds United closing in on Gabriel Gudmundsson transfer with €10m offer made
Lille man Gabriel Gudmundsson is the player Leeds identified as the ideal replacement for Firpo on the left side of the back four, and a move has progressed at the start of July.
(REUTERS/Benoit Tessier)
With pre-season commencing today for the squad, French outlet Le Petit Lillois report that Leeds are close to completing a €10million (£8.6million) deal for the left-back.
It now sees Gudmundsson expected to push through a move after agreeing personal terms previously with the Whites.
The report also shares that Gudmundsson was approached by various UK clubs over a transfer, but is heading to West Yorkshire:
“In addition to Bafodé Diakité, who is being courted, Gabriel Gudmundsson is gradually getting closer to the English league. Approached by various British teams, he has a clear exit, and it seems he is heading towards Leeds United.”
Leeds United are addressing the left-back position well with very suitable Gabriel Gudmundsson capture
Gudmundsson stands out as one of the best ball-carrying left-backs in Europe – looking at the stats – and that is a trait Leeds are going to need in abundance on the counter.
Leeds are clearly investing a lot into athletic players as well as those technically sound on the ball, and it’s a great strategy to ensure we’re competitive throughout games, even against superior sides.
Gudmundsson’s height (just shy of 6ft) is also a bonus for the club too in becoming much more physically robust.
Looking like getting him in this early into July is good news too, allowing him as much time as possible to get integrated with the squad.
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