Leeds United get Leonardo Balerdi answer with £20m bid ready
Leeds United have been linked with a move for Marseille defender Leonardo Balerdi, with promotion to the Premier League secured.
The Whites ended the Championship season as winners and amassed 100 points over a 46-game season, edging out Burnley on goal difference.
Daniel Farke is also now set to stay on despite it seeming earlier that he was on his way out.
Balerdi keen on Premier League transfer this summer
The Marseille centre-back is understood to be keen on a Premier League switch this summer, according to TEAMtalk.
However, it's understood that the French side are not keen on parting ways with the Argentina international.
With Roberto de Zerbi's side keen on bringing in new centre-backs, the 26-year-old could decide to leave if his game time becomes an issue.
| Stats (Ligue 1) | Balerdi |
| Matches | 24 |
| Pass accuracy | 94.1% |
| Long pass accuracy | 58.6% |
| Ground duels won | 122 (61%) |
| Aerial duels won | 37 (64.9%) |
| Minutes played | 2,006 |
That said, Leeds United may find it hard to convince him to join given their status as a relegation-threatened Premier League side.
A report from the Sun on Sunday’s print edition (4 May, page 55) claims that the Whites are readying a bid to sign him after sending scouts to watch him play.
It also states that Marseille would want a fee of £20million if they are to part ways with their defender.
Leeds United can still convince Balerdi to move to Elland Road
Balerdi could significantly strengthen Leeds' defence as they return to the Premier League.
The 26-year-old Marseille centre-back’s physicality, aerial dominance, and ball-playing ability align perfectly with Farke’s high-intensity system, addressing vulnerabilities exposed during their last Premier League stint.
His experience in Ligue 1 and multiple Argentina caps add quality and composure to a backline likely to face relegation pressure.
To convince Balerdi, the Whites must emphasise their ambitious project under Farke, who led them to a 100-point Championship title, signalling stability and attacking football that suits Balerdi’s skillset.
Offering a competitive wage, a clear starting role, and highlighting the passionate Elland Road atmosphere could sway him, despite Marseille’s reluctance to sell.
With a £20million bid likely to be in play, Leeds can assure Balerdi of regular minutes, unlike at Marseille, where new signings may limit his game time.