Leeds go big with winger ‘bid’ but transfer far from straight forward

Adama Traore TEAMtalk

Leeds United have submitted a sizeable bid for Wolves winger Adama Traore but their hopes of landing him hang in the balance, according to a report on Saturday.

The 25-year-old joined Wolves from Middlesbrough in the summer of 2018. He still has two years of his five-year deal to run but rumours persist that he wants a change of scenery. Leeds have been linked for some time while Liverpool have also been mentioned in connection with the wide man.

However, according to journalist Duncan Castles, the Whites have firmed up their interest with a £30m offer. Marcelo Bielsa is known to be in the market for attacking reinforcements this summer.

The Elland Road outfit enjoyed a solid return to the Premier League after 16 years in 2020-2021. A ninth-place finish was more than creditable but the Argentinian tactician will want to better that this term.

The addition of Traore would be a step in the right direction. The Spain international has made 103 top-flight appearances for the Black Country club.

Marcelo Bielsa, Leeds manager watches on against West Brom, 23/05/2021, TEAMtalk

He has pace to burn and creates many chances for his fellow forwards. The former Aston Villa star has won six caps for Spain and may not fancy a move to West Yorkshire.

Traore eyes Champions League

The stumbling block to Bielsa getting his man could be the player’s own ambition. He is said to favour joining a club that can offer Champions League football.

Leeds will have that target in mind but it is likely to be a few years away. There is also the shadow of Tottenham hanging over Leeds’ hopes, with former Wolves chief Nuno Espirito Santo now in charge.

The Portuguese is known to be a big fan of the ex-Barcelona youth player and might be keen on a reunion. The north Londoners have now seen the back of Erik Lamela and Nuno will be eyeing a replacement.

Traore could fit the bill and will not break the bank at the figures being quoted. But if the report is to be believed, Leeds have stolen a march on their rivals with an opening offer.

Should the Spaniard arrive it may well prompt a change of tactics by the South American coach. Raphinha currently occupies a position wide on the right and has been superb since he arrived at the club.

Bielsa is unlikely to move the Brazilian and so Traore may be used in a different role.

READ MORE: Club chairman’s comments point to Leeds target moving in £14.5m transfer