Leeds Utd facing major Serie A challenge in bid to complete Takumi Minamino coup

Leeds United are reportedly among several clubs monitoring Liverpool’s Takumi Minamino regarding a potential summer switch, but face a major challenge from Serie A to land the playmaker.

The attacking midfielder has scored 10 goals and added a single assist in 24 matches in all competitions for the Reds this term. However, he only started once in the Premier League and two Champions League clashes.

But according to reports, the player’s lack of game time on Merseyside has attracted Leeds’ attention.

La Lazio Siamo Noi claims that Leeds have enquired about the Japan star, along with Serie A side Lazio. Meanwhile, Serie A heavyweights Inter Milan are also said to be in the mix.

The report adds that Minamino is ‘leaving Liverpool’ because he has found ‘little space’ under Jurgen Klopp.

Although the 27-year-old does have a strong relationship with Klopp, the former Red Bull Salzburg man is desperate for more game time next term.

Klopp is also wary of that situation and is not expected to stand in the player’s way. That is despite the fact that the German regards Minamino as a ‘valuable alternative’ in his squad.

Reds ready to cash in on Japan star

Liverpool are reportedly willing to let the player on, if they receive a suitable offer. And the report adds that they value Minamino at around £16-17million.

Leeds’ hopes of signing the Liverpool star are bolstered though, with that fee considered too rich for Lazio.

Leeds pushing to sign Minamino from Liverpool this summer

Leeds United are pushing to sign Minamino from Liverpool to replace out going Raphinha

Much now depends on how serious Inter’s interest is and whether they are willing to fork that figure.

If they do not, then Jesse Marsch could bolster his attacking options with a move for Minamino. Indeed, the player has already shown he can shine in the Premier League while on loan at Southampton.

Having secured their Premier League safety on the final day of the season, Leeds are expected to bolster their squad this summer to avoid another relegation scrap in 2022-23.

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