HUGE BLOW: EPL manager shuts Leeds United transfer chase of very Powerful defender revealing a nutshell ” I want him to stay by all means”
If reports are accurate, Leeds United could end up signing more players in the final week of the transfer window than they have in the previous two and a half months combined.
Since Friday, Largie Ramazani and Manor Solomon have both joined Elland Road, and as many as three more players could arrive by the week’s end.
The club is targeting a new full-back and central midfielder, with Roland Sallai also being considered to strengthen the attacking options.
In defense, Bournemouth’s Max Aarons is the most prominent name linked, while midfield targets include Gustavo Hamer, Philip Billing, and Ao Tanaka.
Leeds’ pursuit of Philip Billing
Leeds’ interest in Hamer, Billing, and Tanaka indicates their desire to bring in a new number eight who can contribute goals. They reportedly had a £13 million bid for Hamer rejected by Sheffield United, leading them to consider activating Tanaka’s release clause instead.
Billing is also on Leeds’ radar, but Sheffield United currently seems to be leading the chase. However, Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has downplayed rumors of Billing’s departure. Speaking to the Bournemouth Echo before his team’s Carabao Cup match against West Ham, Iraola emphasized his determination to keep Billing, who he considers a crucial player.
Iraola stated: “I don’t want to lose Philip. I think he’s a very, very good football player. I cannot guarantee like with every player, because you never know what’s going to happen tomorrow. But, I think he will stay. My mind at least, is that he stays with us.”
He added that although Billing couldn’t play recently, he should be ready for the weekend and reiterated his desire to keep him at the club.
Leeds’ interest in Billing cools amid Tanaka speculation
Given Leeds’ quick move towards Tanaka, it seems unlikely they believe they have a strong chance of signing Billing.
Tanaka, available for just £2.65 million, would be a much cheaper option than Billing, allowing Leeds to avoid last-minute negotiations for a player they might not secure.
Additionally, this could free up funds for Leeds to finalize a deal for Freiburg’s Sallai. If they manage to sign Sallai, he would likely be considered one of the standout acquisitions in the Championship this summer, making it understandable if Leeds opt to save money elsewhere to complete this signing.