Leeds United

Leeds United

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Azzedine Ounahi: Fabrizio Romano sounds note of caution as report claims Leeds blitz competition away with huge offer

Azzedine Ounahi and Antoine Griezmann

Leeds United are leading the charge to sign Azzedine Ounahi after reports in Italy claimed they had submitted by far the most substantial bid for the Moroccan’s services.

The Whites have been in a hurry to address their problem positions this month, having already brought in Maximilian Wober and Georginio Rutter. Rutter arrives in a club-record deal and could make his debut this week as Leeds prepare for a crucial double header at Elland Road.

And with a new left-sided defender and another striker option on their books, Leeds are reportedly now considering a move to strengthen their midfield.

Indeed, the departure of Mateusz Klich to DC United earlier this month leaves Jesse Marsch a little light on numbers. Klich, who has appeared in every Premier League game so far this season, departs Elland Road after five and a half years on the books.

Leeds do have Marc Roca and the impressive Tyler Adams as first-choice options in midfield. Beyond that, they can call upon Adam Forshaw, Sam Greenwood or teenager Darko Gyabi.

Forshaw, however, is out of contract this summer and may be allowed to depart if an offer comes in this month.

As such, Phil Hay has recently confirmed Leeds’ interest in signing Angers midfielder Ounahi.

The Moroccan midfielder enjoyed an exceptional World Cup, playing a leading role as his country reached the semi-finals.

That has prompted links to the likes of Aston Villa, Tottenham and Leicester. There is interest from European big guns Napoli and PSG.

However, Fabrizio Romano last week confirmed PSG are not in the running to sign Ounahi. And hopes of a move to Leeds are growing after both Romano and Italian outlet Il Matino claimed Leeds currently had the highest offer on the table for Ounahi.

Leeds are highest bidders for Azzedine Ounahi

Indeed, per the Italian paper, Leeds’ offer for Ounahi is worth up to £22m (€25m).

That is reportedly some way higher than the £16m (€18m) offer on the table from Leicester City. Napoli, meanwhile – the side Ounahi reportedly favours signing for – are reportedly only able to offer £13.3m (€15m).

As such, Il Mattino claims Leeds are in the driving seat to secure his signing at this stage.

However, trusted reporter Romano has sounded a note of caution over a potential move to Leeds.

He insists nothing has been decided yet over Ounahi’s future.

Furthermore, he claims the coming week will likely be key as other sides decide how to proceed.

Sharing what he knows, Romano tweeted: ‘Azzedine Ounahi deal. Leeds have to decide how to proceed with signings after spending big money on Rutter. Deal not dead but other clubs also moving. Next week expected to be key – as Napoli have offered €15m to Angers one week ago.’

As such, it’s perhaps too early to say at this stage where Ounahi will move to next.

However, with Angers rooted to the basement of Ligue 1 and keen to sell the star to the highest bidder, the player does appear likely to be on the move this month.

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