Leeds United plot double transfer as £17m release clause claim emerges
Leeds United secured their fourth signing of the summer transfer window on Tuesday with the acquisition of Swedish left-back Gabriel Gudmundsson from French side Lille. The 25-year-old joins the Yorkshire club on a long-term deal and is set to bolster the defensive options available to manager Daniel Farke as the Whites prepare for life back in the Premier League.
Gudmundsson becomes the latest addition to a growing list of new recruits at Elland Road, following the arrivals of Lukas Nmecha, Jaka Bijol, and Sebastiaan Bornauw. These signings signal a clear intention from Leeds to build a squad capable of competing in England’s top flight after winning promotion from the Championship last season.
The Leeds hierarchy, led by the 49ers Enterprises ownership group, remains actively involved in the transfer market. With the Premier League campaign fast approaching, the club is eager to make further reinforcements before the September 1st transfer deadline. Farke and his recruitment team are reportedly working on multiple deals across various positions to ensure depth and quality in the squad.
Newcastle Duo on Leeds’ Radar
In midfield, Leeds United are reportedly showing concrete interest in Sean Longstaff and Joe Willock, both currently at Newcastle United. According to TEAMtalk, Longstaff has been a long-standing target for Leeds, and talks around his potential move have gained momentum in recent weeks.
Meanwhile, Willock has emerged as a possible alternative option, especially as a contingency plan if Leeds are unable to secure a permanent move for Manor Solomon, who spent last season on loan at Elland Road from Tottenham Hotspur. Willock’s energy and versatility in midfield could prove valuable for Leeds as they aim to establish themselves in the Premier League.
Torino Shot-Stopper Also Targeted
On the goalkeeping front, Leeds are being linked with Vanja Milinković-Savić, the Serbian international who currently plays for Torino in Serie A. Italian journalist Alfredo Pedullà reports that Leeds are among several clubs monitoring the 27-year-old, who is said to have a €20 million (£17.3 million) release clause in his contract.
Napoli are also believed to be interested in Milinković-Savić, but Leeds are seriously considering whether to trigger his clause as they look to upgrade their goalkeeping department. With the new Premier League season on the horizon, bringing in a top-level goalkeeper with experience in one of Europe’s top leagues could be a priority for Farke’s side.
A Busy Summer Continues
All signs suggest that it will be a busy few weeks ahead at Elland Road as Leeds continue to work behind the scenes to finalise more transfers. With a solid core of new signings already through the door and additional targets identified, Leeds United appear fully committed to assembling a squad capable of not just surviving but thriving upon their return to the Premier League.