Leeds learn transfer timeline as Ladislav Krecji move takes fresh twist
Ladislav Krejci's future remains up in the air with Leeds United having the Czech international on their shortlist.
Daniel Farke is eyeing another centre-back heading into next season, and the Wolves man would provide sufficient cover.
Krejci is the captain of the Czech national side with those leadership qualities likely to be admired by the German.
Leeds had felt positive over a move for the Wolves ace, with the LS11 not put off by the price tag.
Wolves' relegation to the Championship had brought hope that the Molineux outfit would be forced to part ways with some of their top stars, a situation Leeds could exploit.
However, new reports have since added a fresh twist to Leeds' chase of the 27-year-old.
Why Leeds United face new Ladislav Krejci obstacle
Previously, the Express and Star had shared that Leeds felt the price for Krejci was not an obstacle, but things have seemingly changed.
The Whites could now be set for more intense negotations than expected.
According to the latest report from the Express and Star, "Wolves would ideally like to keep Krejci" and "will not be forced to sell on the cheap".
Wolves recently activated their £26million option to buy for the defender.
Leeds had hoped that a deal for Krecji could be secured around a similar fee as to what the Old Gold had paid for the defender.
But, with the Midlands side forking out that figure, alongside the £6m loan fee from last season and now having little reason to sell, talks will likely be tougher.
Wolves are portraying a stronger position on the negotiating table than what was previously believed.
Krejci is currently away at the World Cup, and discussions over a move would have to wait until he returns from international duty, with the report confirming that to be the case.
Additionally, Besiktas are said to be in the fray, so the Whites will have to keep close tabs on the situation to avoid being usurped in the race.
When will Krejci return from the World Cup?
Czechia have found themselves in a difficult situation at the World Cup, picking up just one point in two games.
The European side are currently in third-place, but the likelihood is that a win is required to confirm their place as at least one of the best third-place sides.
Czechia will play their final game of Group A against Mexico at 2 am BST on 25 June.
That could ultimately be their final match of the tournament, and it could then open the door for talks to talk place over his future.
Krejci is not the Whites' only option on the market, though, with Ousmane Diomande also emerging as a potential centre-back signing amid reports from A Bola that Sporting were approached by Leeds.