Leeds United make bid to sign Ao Tanaka, likely to be accepted
Leeds United are likely to have their bid accepted to sign Ao Tanaka from Fortuna Dusseldorf, according to Sakanowa.
The Japanese source reported on Wednesday (28 August) that negotiations are currently underway for the 25-year-old midfielder, with the German club wanting to bring in a replacement first.
There is uncertainty over how much the Japanese international will cost Leeds, with the Daily Mail reporting [27 August] a £2.65million release clause while BILD [28 August] dispute this, suggesting £3.3million is needed to seal a deal.
Leeds United to sign Ao Tanaka as midfield reinforcement?
While Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev have formed quite the partnership in the centre of midfield, Daniel Farke is short of alternative options in case of injury or needed rest throughout the season.
Joe Rothwell has been brought in on a season-long loan from Bournemouth, but with only seven league starts to his name across the Premier League and Championship last term, Farke needs another new face through the door.
The Whites have lost both Archie Gray and Glen Kamara during the summer, two huge figures in the middle of the park, with the hierarchy at Elland Road doing little to reinforce the position now.
Tanaka, who the club have previously targeted, could offer a simple solution for a small fee of £3.3million, which should be readily available after the big-money exits of Gray, Crysencio Summerville and Georginio Rutter.
Given the departure of two high-scoring stars this month, the 25-year-old’s keen eye for goal would be a welcomed addition to Farke’s squad, especially mixed with his defensive capabilities.
While the midfielder, who has won 27 caps for Japan, does score most of his goals from inside the box, his tackling ability is not hindered by his joy of attacking, which will be the primary concern for Farke.
Leeds have conceded far too many goals in the first few opening games of the season, drawing 3-3 with Portsmouth and losing 3-0 to Middlesbrough, though they were followed by two clean sheets.
In other Leeds United news, Ally McCoist has shared a new promotion prediction following recent transfer developments at Elland Road.
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