Leeds United ambush move to seal Anthony Caci transfer
Mainz defender Anthony Caci has emerged as a target for Leeds United this summer.
Daniel Farke is on the lookout for top-flight talent that can bolster his squad for their first Premier League campaign since the 2022/23 season.
The 27-year-old is a threat going forward and can also play on the right of midfield, with seven assists in 33 matches for Mainz in the Bundesliga this season.
He is also a solid defender, with his aggression, anticipation, and speed being the standout attributes that would make him a huge asset to the Elland Road outfit.
Leeds set for Caci ambush
Junior Firpo looks like he will depart this summer, so the Whites need to find a replacement for the Dominican international.
A report from Foot Mercato (5 June) claims that Farke’s side are set to rival the likes of Fulham and Borussia Dortmund for Caci’s signature.
It states that those three clubs are trying to ambush Stade Rennais’ move for the French defender, with Mainz still hoping to extend his current deal.
Farke needs top-quality signings at Leeds
Caci is versatile; he can play across the backline, mainly on the left, which would be a bonus for the Peacocks in their survival bid.
It will be tough to stay in the division, and several signings are needed throughout the squad, with only a few of the current team deemed capable, with Ethan Ampadu being one of them.
| Stats (Bundesliga) | Caci |
| Matches | 33 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 7 |
| Minutes played | 2,703 |
Farke needs the 49ers to back him significantly, and they are already on the back foot after missing out on Caoimhin Kelleher, who would have been a huge upgrade on Illan Meslier.
They also need to sort a deal for Manor Solomon to return permanently, as well as potential upgrades in midfield, without worrying about the defence.
If they lose Firpo, which looks like a genuine possibility at this point, it will only add to their list of business needed. The former Barcelona full-back provided 10 assists in the Championship last season, and it will be a huge ask to replace that impact.
If they could wrap up a deal for Caci ahead of their rivals, it would be a good start to their dealings and a major bid to their chances of staying up.