Leeds United close in on Ao Tanaka transfer as contract update emerges at Elland Road

Leeds United are close to finalising a deal for Fortuna Dusseldorf midfielder Ao Tanaka, according to HITC.

The outlet reported on 28 August that despite the two parties nearing an agreement on a deal, the Japan international’s wages are proving to be an issue.

HITC also state that although Leeds are willing to pay the £4million Dusseldorf wants, a move depends solely on whether Tanaka’s contract can be agreed upon.

Ao Tanaka would be a stellar transfer for Leeds United

Leeds are one of the many Championship teams that have undergone a lot of change since the summer transfer window opened.

The club have already lost the likes of Archie Gray and even Glen Kamara has exited Elland Road after just a season with the club.

The Japan international would slot right into the void left by the duo and would add further depth to an area of the squad that is in dire need of stability.

The addition of Joe Rothwell has no doubt helped this but Tanaka’s arrival would also help ease the burden upon the shoulders of the loanee as well as the likes of Ilia Gruev and Ethan Ampadu.

Leeds United target Ao Tanaka
Japanese midfielder Ao Tanaka

Rothwell had a strong season with Southampton last term and even managed to contribute to a total of five goals across the season.

While so far Leeds haven’t played to their best standards, it feels as if it’s only a matter of time before they start capitalising on all the money they’ve raised from player sales this transfer window.

In other Leeds United news, Fabrizio Romano has sent a personal message to a player who’s now agreed to sign for the Whites.

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