Sources: Truth behind Leeds United’s new ‘interest’ in U21 talent amid Fabrizio Romano call

Leeds United Among Clubs Alerted to Lovro Golic’s Imminent Roma Exit — But Move Appears Unlikely

Leeds United have reportedly been made aware of the availability of highly-rated Roma centre-back Lovro Golic, who is poised to become a free agent this summer. The 19-year-old Slovenian defender, who is also attracting attention from Bundesliga outfit Hoffenheim and Serie A side Lecce, is out of contract at the end of June, opening the door for a potential switch away from the Italian capital.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Leeds are among the clubs monitoring Golic’s situation, with the Whites keeping an eye on opportunities in the market as they look to reinforce their defensive ranks following their promotion back to the Premier League.

The club has already made significant strides in that area, with a deal close to completion for Udinese and Slovenia international centre-back Jaka Bijol. That move is expected to be confirmed shortly, marking an important early step in Daniel Farke’s plans to strengthen the spine of his squad.

However, while Golic is considered a promising young talent and a compatriot of Bijol, sources close to the club suggest that he is not currently a serious target for the Elland Road hierarchy. Despite his potential, Golic lacks senior experience, having spent the 2024/25 season playing primarily for Roma’s Under-20 side and not yet featuring in a competitive first-team match for the Giallorossi.

Currently representing Slovenia in the UEFA European Under-21 Championship, Golic has made appearances against top opposition, including a 3-0 loss to Germany and a goalless draw with England. These performances have no doubt put him on the radar of several clubs across Europe, but it remains unclear whether Leeds are truly in the frame for his signature — or if their name is being used strategically by the player’s representatives to spark wider interest.

There’s growing speculation that this could be a classic case of an agent leveraging club links to enhance their client’s profile as they push for a move away from their current club. It wouldn’t be the first time that Leeds United have been mentioned in speculative transfer chatter without concrete interest from the club itself.

Under the stewardship of the 49ers Enterprises ownership group, Leeds United’s recruitment strategy is expected to be more focused and pragmatic than during their previous Premier League stint. Back then, the club often sought to blend youthful prospects with senior signings, hoping to develop long-term assets. This time around, however, the emphasis is likely to shift toward ready-made players who can contribute immediately in a high-stakes top-flight survival campaign.

With that in mind, investing in a 19-year-old defender with no senior minutes under his belt appears inconsistent with Leeds’ current priorities — especially in such a pivotal position as centre-back, where solidity and experience are critical to avoiding another quick drop back to the Championship.

Unless circumstances change significantly — such as Golic accepting a developmental role with potential loan plans — it seems unlikely that Leeds will pursue the Roma youngster further. For now, the club’s defensive focus remains firmly on experienced additions who can hit the ground running in the Premier League.