Leeds United handed Ilia Gruev transfer boost as Borussia Dortmund update emerges
Ilia Gruev has become a key part of Daniel Farke’s Leeds United squad, impressing after cementing his spot in the starting XI halfway through the season.
The 24-year-old struggled to adapt to life at Elland Road after joining from Werder Bremen last summer but managed to persuade the manager to give him a real opportunity in midfield.
Having made 35 appearances for the Whites last season, partnering up with Glen Kamara in the middle of the park, his performances prompted interest from Borussia Dortmund earlier this month [Sky Sports Germany].
With Leeds condemned to a second consecutive season in the Championship, having missed out on promotion via the play-off final, the club will be keen to keep the Bulgarian this summer, and they may have just been handed a major boost.
According to Fabrizio Romano [24 June], Brighton’s Pascal Gross is also on Dortmund’s radar, with the 33-year-old midfielder set to decide his future in the coming days.
It is understood that if the German turns down the new contract offer at the Amex Stadium, the Bundesliga side will be ready and waiting to secure the player’s signature this summer.
Leeds United handed Ilia Gruev transfer boost as Borussia Dortmund change targets
Given Gross’ ability in midfield, Dortmund are unlikely to sign both him and Gruev in the same window, which will be good news for Leeds.
If the 24-year-old stays at Elland Road next season, he is likely to form a partnership with 18-year-old Archie Gray, which the squad can be built around, though he has also been linked with an exit.
While Gruev has experienced an impressive first season in England, Gross’ experience and Premier League pedigree could put him above the Leeds man in Dortmund’s transfer wishlist.
This would, of course, not be a negative for the Whites, especially as Leeds prepare for the 2024/25 campaign in the Championship.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites want to sign Canada star Liam Millar as a long-term contract update emerges.
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