Leeds, Palace alerted after buyout clause activated for exciting forward

Said Benrahma, Josh Da Silva, Ollie Watkins

Leeds and Crystal Palace are just two of a number of Premier League sides who have been buoyed by the activation of a buyout clause for a Championship hotshot.

Brentford fell at the final hurdle in their quest for promotion after suffering play-off final heartache against Fulham.

The defeat was a bitter pill to swallow for The Bees, who had the most potent attack in the league.

A huge part of that strength stemmed from the exciting front three of Said Benrahma, Bryan Mbeumo and Ollie Watkins.

But with promotion hopes now dashed, the Premier League clubs are circling.

One player who has attracted particularly strong interest is Watkins.

The 24-year-old has been linked with Leeds, Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Newcastle, among others, and all concerned now know where they stand with regards to his transfer valuation.

The BBC report that following their play-off defeat, Watkins is now free to leave Griffin Park for a fee of £18m.

Ollie Watkins Brentford TEAMtalk

The clause in his contract activated after a stay in the Championship was cemented, and strong interest is quickly expected to materialise.

The article notes that Palace came close to securing his services last summer when the deal would’ve been worth £10m.

Having notched 25 goals in 46 games in the campaign, Watkins is expected to be a man in demand.

 

Leeds eyeing up £18m Eredivisie talent

Marcos Senesi Feyenoord TEAMtalk

Meanwhile, The Whites have been linked with a defender from Feyenoord who one report claims have ‘little choice but to sell’.

Marcelo Bielsa’s side are gearing up for a busy transfer window following their promotion to the Premier League. They are likely to target up to two new centre-halves, a left-back, a striker and an attacking midfielder.

Top of the priority list, however, remains plugging the gaps in their central defence. Ben White is back at Brighton following the expiry of his year-long loan. While Leeds remain hopeful of landing White permanently, they are considering alternatives.

Last month they were linked with River Plate defender Lucas Martinez Quarta, rated at €15m.

The Argentine boasts impressive stats and seemingly has the attributes required to succeed in a Bielsa side.

Now, Radio Continental journalist Martin Flores claims they are also considering a move for another Argentine.

Read the full story here.