Josip Brekalo ready to quit Wolfsburg amid Leeds United interest
Croatia attacker Josip Brekalo wants to leave Wolfsburg amid interest from Leeds United, Atletico Madrid and clubs in Italy, according to CalcioMercato.
The Italian news outlet claims Atalanta, Fiorentina and Inter Milan are also keen on the 23-year-old, who can play on either wing.
It is understood that after five years in Germany playing for Stuttgart and Wolfsburg, Brekalo is ready for a new challenge.
Wolfsburg reportedly want at least £15.5million for the 27-time Croatia international with a loan-to-buy deal is also on the cards.
CalcioMercato suggests Leeds and Atletico are favourites to sign Brekalo at this stage.
Extra strength out wide
Marcelo Bielsa likes having plenty of options out wide and although he may leave it late this summer to add a new winger, it’s certainly something that could be on the cards.
The Athletic’s Phil Hay reported last week that Bielsa plans to sign a new winger if the right player presents itself later in the transfer window.
It is understood that could raise questions on the future of Helder Costa, who struggled to impress in his second season at Elland Road last time out.
Brekalo could be an upgrade, in terms of quality and re-sale value too.
The Croatian made 33 appearances in all competitions for Wolfsburg last season, scoring seven goals and supplying four assists in the process.
Brekalo’s performances helped the Lower Saxony club qualify for the Champions League group stages for next season but despite there being an adventure in Europe imminent, he wants to move on.
The Premier League should appeal to Brekalo, as should a chance to play for Bielsa, a manager who loves to get the most out of his wingers.
Brekalo’s versatility and potential availability seems to make him an ideal candidate to arrive late in the summer but Leeds shouldn’t want too long to make a move with the ex-Dinamo Zagreb ace attraction attention from across Europe.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites have submitted a bid to sign this new central midfielder.