The pursuit of Rodrigo Muniz is now reaching a critical stage with the Fulham striker seemingly having the pick of two clubs. A move to Italy with Atalanta, or Leeds United in the Premier League.
Leeds begin their Premier League campaign in just five days, when The Whites play host to Everton and new signing Jack Grealish. A close contest is expected at Elland Road as Leeds look to secure a first win.
But having secured a seventh signing on July 26, Leeds have been unable to add to that list of recruits. That is despite being strongly linked with the likes of Bilal El Khannouss, Nico Gonzalez and plenty more.
Of course, Rodrigo Muniz remains first choice for Leeds when it comes to signing a striker. But Atalanta are leading the charge, amid reports that the Serie A side have seen an initial offer rejected for him.
Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz at Anfield
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Atalanta confident they can agree reduced fee with Fulham
Reports emerged on Tuesday that Atalanta had a £34.5m bid rejected by Fulham for Muniz. A measly £2.5m more than the £32m offer Leeds made at the beginning of the summer transfer window for him.
Now, a report from TMW says Atalanta remain confident of doing a deal. While the reports earlier this week said Fulham are holding out for £43m, Atalanta believe they can sign Muniz for a fee of £38m.
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As things stand, Atalanta are on pole to beat Leeds to Muniz’s signature. The striker wants to join Atalanta who have qualified for the Champions League. TMW do report ‘beware of Leeds’, with Leeds still keen.
Rodrigo Muniz will be a record signing – for Leeds and Atalanta
Given Fulham have rejected a £34.5m bid from Atalanta for Muniz, the chances are that a fee is going to be the best part of £40m. Close to it, if not £40m on the nose. Atalanta are confident of slightly less.
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Atalanta’s current record transfer was a £26m deal for El-Bilal Toure from Stuttgart. Leeds’ record is still Georginio Rutter, costing the club a huge £35.5m from Hoffenheim back in the January 2023 window.
So, whichever club Muniz does end up joining, he will be a record transfer. Graham Smyth has reported in the last few days that Leeds remain confident in nabbing Muniz’s signature, but Atalanta are pushing.