Sunderland have reportedly set their sights on a defender also believed to be of interest to Leeds United.
While there is palpable excitement around Elland Road, there is also an awareness of the growing gulf between England’s top two tiers.
Leeds will need to be shrewd in their summer business, with astute signings most likely required in order for the Whites to be able to compete.
Modibo Sagnan has impressed for Montpellier in Ligue 1.Modibo Sagnan has impressed for Montpellier in Ligue 1.
Modibo Sagnan has impressed for Montpellier in Ligue 1. | PASCAL GUYOT/AFP via Getty Images
Leeds United and Sunderland’s ‘interest’ in Modibo Sagnan
Last month, reports suggested Leeds had shown an interest in Montpellier defender Sagnan. A centre-back by trade, he is a senior Mali international who has impressed in Ligue 1 this term.
According to French outlet Midi Libre, the 26-year-old is also in the sights of Sunderland.
Leeds United’s centre-back department
Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk were Daniel Farke’s centre-backs of choice last season, although injury issues for the latter meant Ethan Ampadu spent time deputising.
As far as natural centre-back deputies go, Farke had Max Wober and James Debayo at his disposal. However, the former had injury issues too and the latter lacks senior experience.
Adding depth in the heart of defence appears a logical step for Leeds, who may need Ampadu’s grit in the centre of midfield next season.
Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk were Leeds United's centre-backs of choice last season.Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk were Leeds United's centre-backs of choice last season.
Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk were Leeds United's centre-backs of choice last season. | George Wood/Getty Images
A busy summer ahead for Leeds United.
Leeds appear likely to recruit in several areas of the pitch and an array of goalkeepers have been linked with moves to Elland Road.
Further up the pitch, winger Manor Solomon has been linked with a permanent move to West Yorkshire having shone after his loan move from Tottenham Hotspur.