Mattia Zanotti
(Credit: Imago)
Alex Charlton
Sun 10 August 2025 7:45, UK
Leeds United have already completed substantial business ahead of their return to the Premier League.
Daniel Farke’s side face Everton at Elland Road in under a week and could make more additions before then.
The Peacocks have strengthened key areas of their squad, with Lucas Perri taking the number one jersey from Illan Meslier.
Now, there has been a significant update on the Whites’ pursuit of Italian right back Mattia Zanotti.
Leeds United manager Daniel Farke waving at fans
Farke has a host of new players in his Leeds squad (Credit: Imago)
Leeds United dealt transfer blow as Zanotti issue emerges
Leeds entered advanced talks to sign Zanotti for a fee upwards of £8million as the Yorkshire club seek a new right back.
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The 22-year-old came through the ranks at Inter Milan, but now plies his trade with Swiss side FC Lugano.
Zanotti has already made four appearances this season, having made 41 in all competitions last term.
The Italian showed his attacking threat for Lugano, notching 13 goal contributions across domestic and European games.
Competition Appearances Goals Assists
Swiss Super League 27 0 5
Europa Conference League 6 0 3
Swiss Cup 2 1 1
Europa League qualifying 4 1 2
Champions League qualifying 2 0 0
Zanotti’s 2024/25 statistics by competition
After advanced talks between Leeds and Lugano for Zanotti, negotiations are now on hold due to issues on the player’s side, according to Lorenzo Lepore (9 August).
While the journalist does not report exactly what those issues are, it seems that Farke’s side have been dealt a blow in their bid to sign the defender.
That could have permutations for Isaac Schmidt, as his exit cannot be sanctioned until a replacement is found.
Read more: Schmidt exit conditions emerge as Leeds United move for new right-back
Leeds do not need to rush pursuit of right back
While the Yorkshire club are striving to land a new right back, there is no need to rush to get one through the door.
Farke already has Jayden Bogle as his primary option at right back, with Schmidt as a backup.
Bogle impressed last season with his phenomenal performances in the Championship, and Schmidt is another worthy option.
This means that the Peacocks are in no rush to land a new right back and can take their time to find an alternative to Zanotti if required.
Bogle is the first choice right back
Schmidt is a backup option, but will likely leave this summer
Leeds are chasing a fresh option to challenge Bogle
Of course, they must maintain their stance on Schmidt and cannot let him leave until they bag a replacement.
While their pursuit of Zanotti has seemingly stalled, there is no need to panic at Elland Road.
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