Leeds United’s early interest in Ilan Kebbal now looks increasingly relevant as the Paris FC playmaker attracts fresh attention after delivering in Ligue 1 for Paris FC.
Leeds were among the clubs tracking Kebbal during his time in Ligue 2, and that interest was not casual. Contact was made with his representatives, underlining that this was a player firmly on their radar.
Now, after stepping up a level and producing in Ligue 1, the 26 year old has re-emerged on the radar, with English clubs once again monitoring his situation. Leeds are among them, according to Africa Foot.
Leeds interest came before Kebbal’s breakthrough
Kebbal’s numbers in Ligue 2 explain why Leeds moved when they did. During the 2023-24 campaign, he registered six goals and 11 assists, placing him among the most productive attackers in the league.
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Leeds were linked with Kebbal at that stage, reflecting the level of attention he was attracting across Europe. That aligns with wider reporting that Leeds had made contact.
Indeed, they were prepared to explore a deal. It is important context. Leeds were not reacting late. They identified Kebbal before his rise gathered wider attention.
Leeds target Kebbal now delivering at Ligue 1 level
Paris FC’s promotion provided the platform for Kebbal to prove whether his output could translate to the top flight. He has answered that question clearly.
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In the current Ligue 1 season, Kebbal has made 23 appearances, scoring eight goals and adding four assists. Those are strong returns for a newly promoted side, particularly from an attacking midfield role.
The underlying numbers support it. He has produced consistent creative output, including a high volume of key passes and a pass accuracy in the mid 80s, showing he is not reliant on moments but contributes across games.
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Photo by Anne-Christine POUJOULAT / AFP via Getty Images
That form has not gone unnoticed. AfricaFoot report that Igor Paixao’s Marseille are leading the race for his signature, with interest building around him as the summer window approaches.
Leeds among English clubs tracking the situation again
The same report notes that clubs from England are keeping a close watch on Kebbal’s situation. That is where Leeds re-enter the picture.
Given their previous contact and clear interest, Leeds sit naturally within that group of clubs monitoring developments. This is not a new name being circulated. It is a player they have done groundwork on.
There is no suggestion of talks being reopened at this stage, but the link is logical. Leeds have seen his development up close, and his progression from Ligue 2 standout to Ligue 1 contributor strengthens the original case for signing him.
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With Marseille pushing from within France, competition has stepped up. Kebbal is no longer a low profile option. His valuation, currently estimated at around €4.8 million, reflects that shift.
Shared Red Bull links add another layer
Paris FC, like Leeds, are among a small group of clubs connected to Red Bull investment and influence.
That does not drive transfers directly, but it does place both clubs within a similar recruitment model. Kebbal’s rise within that structure is notable.
For Leeds, the key point remains simple. They identified a player early, saw his potential, and have now watched him deliver at a higher level. The RedBull connection may give Leeds the edge.
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