Jordan Torunarigha ‘ready’ for move as Leeds United given transfer boost
Leeds United transfer target Jordan Torunarigha has said he is “ready for the next step” in an interview concerning his future.
Speaking to Transfermarkt on 1 July, the Gent defender said he has received “exciting” enquiries from interested clubs, with United linked alongside Bundesliga duo Hoffenheim and Stuttgart (Florian Plettenberg, 22 May).
The Nigeria international centre-back could reportedly be available to the Whites for as little as £2.1-£2.5million this summer, despite his current side in Belgium valuing him closer to £4.25million.
Torunarigha said in the interview: “There are very exciting and specific inquiries that I am dealing with.
“I feel good, am in top shape and ready for the next step.
“I still have a year left on my contract and I’m not in a hurry. We’ll see what happens.
“I’m aiming for the highest possible sporting goals, and that definitely plays a role in my decision.”
Leeds United might not need Jordan Torunarigha transfer
Torunarigha’s interview came just a day before the Peacocks sealed their first incoming transfer of the summer window – and it’s a big one too, with Joe Rodon arriving on a £10million deal from Tottenham [Graham Smyth, 1 July].
Rodon was one of the Championship’s best defenders while on loan at Elland Road last season, and Daniel Farke may see his signing as both the start and end of defensive reinforcements this summer [Nancy Froston, 26 June].
That’s tempered by the futures of two centre-backs who are currently in line to return to the club, albeit one of the pair – Diego Llorente – is on the verge of sealing a permanent transfer to Real Betis [Estadio Deportivo, 1 July].
Maximilian Wober is still on Euro 2024 duty with Austria, and has told outlets in his homeland that he doesn’t intend to discuss his United future until after he returns from Germany [Salzburger Nachrichten, 3 June].
Should Wober depart either or loan or permanently again this summer, Farke may be keen on adding to his left-sided centre-back stocks – but if not, and with Pascal Struijk returning to fitness, it’s unlikely that the Whites will be active in the race for Torunarigha much longer.
In other Leeds news, the club have been handed a major boost in their bid to keep Crysencio Summerville after a £33m development emerged.
For more Leeds news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.