Leeds United have to sign Sammie Szmodics as Fabrizio Romano drops Monday update
Leeds United are likely to begin the 2024/25 Championship season with a much-changed squad than the one that missed out on promotion last term.
Archie Gray and Glen Kamara have already sealed moves away from Elland Road this summer, with prolific goalscorer Crysencio Summerville expected to be one of the next to leave.
West Ham United have submitted an initial proposal for the 22-year-old, according to Fabrizio Romano [22 July], with talks also taking place on the player’s side.
While the move is not close yet, Leeds must prepare for the idea that Summerville might not be at Elland Road once the new season rolls around in August.
One way in which the Whites can soften the blow is to ramp up their efforts to sign Blackburn Rovers’ main attacking threat, Sammie Szmodics, who notched 27 Championship goals last season.
Leeds United to hijack Sammie Szmodics deal as Ipswich Town attempt transfer
Newly promoted Ipswich are in advanced talks with Blackburn for the 28-year-old Republic of Ireland international, according to Sky Sports’ Dharmesh Sheth.
However, Alan Myers states [22 July] that there is a “big gap” between the Tractor Boys’ initial bid and the club’s valuation of the player.
This gap in valuation should provide Leeds with a chance to hijack the deal for Szmodics, who was dubbed as “awesome” by John Eustace after the Rovers’ draw against Norwich City last season.
While both Leeds and Ipswich are interested in sealing the player’s signature this summer, his current club have offered him new and improved wages to remain at Ewood Park [Daily Mirror, 22 July].
Staying with Blackburn this summer could be a possible eventuality for Szmodics, but with 33 goals in all competitions last term, the Whites must ensure they do everything to sign him, especially if Summerville is to leave.
In other Leeds United news, Junior Firpo could make a transfer U-turn after what he did in Leeds v Harrogate Town.
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