A fresh report on Leeds United, Everton and Brighton ‘interest’ in Feyenoord’s Ayase Ueda
Everton are reportedly leading Leeds United and Brighton & Hove Albion in the race to sign Ayase Ueda from Feyenoord.
The 27-year-old, who is gearing up to represent Japan at the World Cup, sent his stock soaring with a goal-laden 2025/26 campaign in the Netherlands.
He ended the season with a tally of 26 goals across 40 appearances across all competitions, which appears to have alerted Premier League clubs.
Japan international Ayase Ueda has been linked with a raft of Premier League clubs.placeholder image
Japan international Ayase Ueda has been linked with a raft of Premier League clubs. | Zak Mauger/Getty Images
Ayase Ueda latest
However, according to SportsBoom, Everton are currently the strongest candidates in the battle for his signature.
It has been claimed the Toffees are readying an offer in the region of £18-20m, which would fall short of Feyenoord’s valuation. The Dutch club are thought to be looking to receive a bid in the €30-35m (£25.8-30.1m) region.
If Everton cannot reach an agreement with Feyenoord, there may be an opportunity for Leeds and Brighton to pounce. The former are reportedly keen to recruit an elite-level finisher in order to strengthen their position in the Premier League.
Ayase Ueda has been a regular source of goals in the Eredivisie for Feyenoord.placeholder image
Ayase Ueda has been a regular source of goals in the Eredivisie for Feyenoord. | PIETER STAM DE JONGE/ANP/AFP via Getty Images
Leeds United’s attack
Dominic Calvert-Lewin was Leeds’ chief marksman last term, delivering a 15-goal haul, but Ueda would add an entirely different dimension to Daniel Farke’s attack.
Depth may also be a concern for the Whites, who could reportedly part with bit-part player Joel Piroe this summer. The 26-year-old was afforded just two league starts last season, slipping below Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha in the pecking order.
If Leeds are indeed eyeing Ueda, they will be keeping a close eye on his performances at the World Cup. Electric displays could be a double-edged sword, as they are likely to increase competition for his signature and hike his value.