Leeds and 49ers now looking to sign £20m+ “UCL level” 6ft player for Farke
Leeds United Plot Ambitious Move for Versatile Rising Star Amid Premier League Return
Fresh from securing promotion back to the Premier League, Leeds United appear poised to ramp up their recruitment drive as they prepare for life in the top flight. According to fresh reports, the Whites are stepping up their pursuit of a highly-rated, multi-position talent as they look to strengthen their squad in key areas.
Strengthening for Survival: Leeds Eye Proven Quality
For newly promoted clubs, the step up to the Premier League can be a treacherous one, and history has shown how quickly unprepared teams can find themselves in a relegation battle. However, under the guidance of Daniel Farke, Leeds are determined to defy the odds and establish themselves as a competitive top-tier outfit.
Their early summer business reflects that ambition. The signings of Slovenia international Jaka Bijol, Germany forward Lukas Nmecha, and Belgian defender Sebastiaan Bornauw have already brought a combination of experience, versatility, and quality to Elland Road. These reinforcements represent the club’s intent to build a team that can both compete and survive in the demanding environment of the Premier League.
Meanwhile, former England goalkeeper and ex-Leeds shot-stopper Paul Robinson has fuelled speculation that the club could make a big-name addition between the sticks. Robinson believes either Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsdale or Newcastle’s Nick Pope would be an ideal replacement for the inconsistent Illan Meslier.
“Ramsdale – I’ve said before – would be a brilliant signing for Leeds,” Robinson said. “Now we’re hearing they’re looking seriously at Nick Pope too. Both goalkeepers are high on Leeds’ radar this summer, and bringing either in would send a huge message.”
With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Ramsdale, currently out of favour at Arsenal, is thought to be open to a move where he could re-establish himself as a regular starter and push for a return to the England squad.
In addition, reports suggest that Lucas Perri of Lyon has also emerged as a potential candidate. The French side’s financial crisis and shock demotion to Ligue 2 could force them to offload key players, including the Brazilian goalkeeper — though an appeal is ongoing that may yet save their Ligue 1 status.
Left-Back Reinforcements in Focus After Firpo Exit
Another area of concern for Farke’s side is the left-back position. With Junior Firpo having left the club and Max Wober heading out on loan to Werder Bremen, Leeds are actively seeking reinforcements on the left side of their defence. Lille’s Gabriel Gudmundsson has already been identified as a primary target, and talks are reportedly progressing well.
However, the recruitment team at Elland Road isn’t stopping there.
Leeds Make Their Move for El Hadji Malick Diouf
According to the Sunday Mirror (July 6 print edition), as reported by MOT Leeds News, Leeds United are now in pole position to land Slavia Prague’s dynamic left-sided player El Hadji Malick Diouf. The 20-year-old Senegal international has been attracting attention from several European clubs following his standout performances in both domestic and international competitions.
West Ham United have already had a substantial offer worth £17.25 million (plus add-ons) rejected by the Czech side, who are reportedly holding out for a package worth closer to £21.6 million. Despite interest from Premier League rivals Nottingham Forest and Serie A outfit Atalanta, Leeds are said to be pushing hard to get ahead in the race.
Diouf’s 2024/25 Campaign: Versatility and Promise
Diouf enjoyed an impressive season for Slavia Prague, featuring in 41 matches across all competitions, registering seven goals and four assists — remarkable numbers for a player who regularly features as a left-back or left midfielder. His physical presence (standing at 6 feet tall), technical ability, and tactical flexibility make him a standout prospect.
Football analyst Ben Mattinson has described Diouf as a “UCL-level LB,” underlining his potential to thrive at the highest level. The young Senegalese star’s performance in his nation’s recent 3-1 win over England — played at the City Ground — further enhanced his reputation, bringing him to the attention of scouts from across Europe.
Interestingly, while Diouf is naturally deployed in wide roles, his adaptability allows him to play centrally in midfield as well. At Leeds, though, he would most likely serve as a left-back or wide midfielder, particularly in light of Wober’s temporary exit.
A Smart Strategy for Top-Flight Stability
By scouring markets across Europe and targeting highly rated, adaptable players, Leeds United are showing signs of a recruitment strategy tailored for survival — and potentially more. El Hadji Malick Diouf represents the kind of exciting, long-term investment that could help define the club’s future in the Premier League.
With a proven track record, the right blend of youth and experience, and a manager in Farke who knows how to get the best from versatile players, Leeds look set to build a squad capable not just of staying up, but of growing into a formidable force in England’s top division once again.