By Mark Smith

28th Jan, 2022 | 8:10pm

Graham Smyth: Takumi Minamino likely to turn nose up at potential Leeds United transfer

Graham Smyth has shared that Liverpool ace Takumi Minamino could likely turn his nose up at a potential move to Leeds United.

The Yorkshire Evening Post journalist has insisted that sitting on the bench behind Jack Harrison and Raphinha would not tickle his fancy.

Leeds are said to have made contact over a move for Minamino, with £20million said to be enough [The Athletic].

Writing for the Yorkshire Evening Post, Smyth shared the latest on a potential last-gasp move for the Japanese international.

“The links to Liverpool’s Takumi Minamino make sense because Leeds have a potential situation with Crysencio Summerville.

“Elland Road sources say the only scenario in which Summerville could go is if they could replace him, which is why a conversation with Liverpool has likely taken place.

“Liverpool are reportedly closing in on Luis Diaz so moving Minamino would help them free up cash but even if Leeds came to some agreement with the Reds, a 27-year-old, established player like Minamino would surely take issue with the idea of sitting on Leeds’ bench.”

Problem?

Could Minamino be used as a central playmaker in-behind whoever is playing in the number nine role?

The Japanese international has played there beforehand and could fill that role if needed before the season ends.

With any move for RB Salzburg star Brenden Aaronson likely to wait until the summer, could the American international come in and take Minamino’s spot at Elland Road beyond this campaign?

The attacker will want a guaranteed spot in the starting XI for more than six months given his time at Anfield where he is stuck on the bench.

On top of that, we can’t see the Whites coughing up £20million for a last-ditch signing as it could be a waste of money long term.

In other Leeds United news, the Whites are set to table a sneaky £22million bid to secure major new January signing