European giants ready tempting offer for €40m Leeds target

Ciro Immobile Rodrigo De Paul

Leeds United may come to rue not snapping up one of their targets during the summer with several European big-hitters now interested in attaining the playmaker’s services.

The Whites were reported by some outlets to have come within a hairs-bredth of bringing in Udinese talent Rodrigo De Paul during the last transfer window.

The Argentine was said to have signalled that he wanted a move to Elland Road over the summer.

However, a ‘faded-signature at the photo-finish’ prevented a deal ultimately being struck.

De Paul seemingly had his heart set on joining up with fellow countryman Marcelo Bielsa.

However, his tone looks to have changed and he is now less certain he wants a move to Yorkshire.

Inter Milan are now mulling over a potential bid for him while reports in Italy also claim  Serie A rivals Juventus could also make a move.

 

 

This indication is backed up by Corriere dello Sport‘s (via Mundo Albicelste) claim that the Italian champions have now fully switched their attentions to the midfielder.

The source states that Juventus have earmarked him as a target after initially looking at other potential options.

It adds that the club may opt to offer a player swap instead of paying the €40million (£35million) price tag Udinese have slapped on him.

De Paul has scored three goals and notched three assists in 15 games this season.


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Whites looking at possible goalkeeping recruit

Meanwhile, Leeds are keeping tabs on West Brom goalkeeper Sam Johnstone.

The custodian made a number of good saves against Liverpool on Sunday. As the Premier League’s most active keeper, he has enjoyed an excellent start to the season.

Brighton are said to be interested in the former Manchester United man’s services too.

Johnstone has 18 months left on his contract and is valued at around £7m by his club.

Leeds are looking sell off Kiko Casilla, so Johnstone would likely come in and take his spot.

Regardless, Illan Meslier is still set to be Bielsa’s first-choice goalkeeper.

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