Leeds United

Leeds United

Championship

Leeds United ‘pushing’ to sign Club Brugge ace Noa Lang in £21m deal, as player’s preference emerges

Club Brugge winger Noa Lang

Leeds United are reportedly ‘pushing’ to sign Noa Lang from Club Brugge, although the winger’s transfer preference could see him join another club.

Lang spent time in the Feyenoord academy before joining Ajax’s youth setup. He only made 14 appearances for the Dutch giants before signing for Club Brugge on loan in 2020.

Lang had a great first season in Belgium, notching 17 goals and 11 assists – mainly from left wing. That saw Brugge spend £5.4million to make his transfer permanent.

The three-time Dutch international has been in good form again this term. His record stands at nine goals and 15 assists from 48 appearances.

Lang’s contract with Brugge lasts until 2025, meaning they don’t have to sell anytime soon.

Despite this, Leeds and AC Milan are ‘pushing’ to land the Ajax academy graduate, according to Italian outlet Calciomercato.

It is not the first time Leeds have been linked with Lang. Back in September, they were pursuing his signature. Interest also came from Premier League rivals Arsenal and West Ham.

Calciomercato reveal the transfer race is now down to two teams – Leeds and Milan. Their report also looks at Sven Botman’s future, as he is on Milan’s wish list too.

Noa Lang to cost Leeds or Milan £21m

The exciting 22-year-old will cost either side just over £21million. That could be a steal if Lang reaches his full potential over the next few years, which is huge.

Milan are willing to pay Lang £2.1m per season, which equates to roughly £40,000 per week. In this regard, Leeds have an advantage as they can pay the attacker more.

But a crucial factor is Lang’s transfer preference. Calciomercato state he wants to sign for Milan, rather than Leeds.

This means Jesse Marsch’s team have their work cut out if they want to complete a deal.

While Milan aren’t that strong financially, they have just had a great season. The Rossoneri recently won their first Serie A title in 11 years after finishing two points ahead of Inter.

Leeds, on the other hand, only just avoided relegation from the Premier League. They took 17th spot as Burnley went down to the Championship instead.

Lang’s transfer preference is understandable given Leeds and Milan’s recent fortunes. But it could be argued that he would get more first-team opportunities at Elland Road.

With Raphinha a target for Barcelona, Lang could become the new hero at Leeds. And this would potentially lead to a big move in the future.

The Dutchman certainly has some thinking to do as the summer transfer window draws closer.

Meanwhile, Leeds could raid Burnley for a centre-back after setting their sights on him.