Leeds United problem highlighted in transfer pursuit of Couhaib Driouech
Ben Jacobs has highlighted Couhaib Driouech’s price tag as a potential problem after Leeds United were linked with the winger.
ED reported [10 June] that Leeds could hijack a move for the 22-year-old this summer, with several clubs keeping tabs on his current situation in the Netherlands.
It is understood that PSV Eindhoven were leading the race to secure Driouech’s signature before the move hit a stumbling block following a failure to agree terms.
Despite this, Leeds are believed not to be in “advanced” talks with the Eredivisie club over a move for Driouech this summer.
Speaking to the JustJoe Football Show on Tuesday (11 June), journalist Jacobs revealed that while the rumours have “some substance”, no deal or agreement at Elland Road is advanced at the moment.
“From what I’m told, Leeds will be looking in the Dutch market and there is some substance to the links with Couhaib Driouech, who is one to watch over the coming weeks,” he said.
“He’s a very talented, early 20s-type player. The problem, though, is price. It may not seem a big fee as Leeds are used to paying £20million, £30million, or £40million over the course of the last few years but right now, they’re looking at deals for under £5million, which can be a stumbling block at times.
“This particular player is a winger, which is an area that Leeds would like to strengthen. It could be some very smart business if they can get it over the line. But at the moment, nothing is advanced or agreed”
Leeds United targeting Couhaib Driouech this summer
Driouech notched eight goals and eight assists in 33 appearances as Excelsior competed in the Eredivisie, impressing in the attacking lineup alongside Tottenham’s Troy Parrott.
With Leeds missing out on promotion to the Premier League, several stars could be leaving Elland Road this summer, and Crysencio Summerville could be in that category.
The 23-year-old Dutchman had a sensational season on the left flank for the Whites, and though his absence would leave a gaping hole in Daniel Farke, Driouech could help to fill that void.
Driouech has plenty of experience in the Dutch first division, and although he has zero experience in the top European divisions, the Championship would hand him the perfect opportunity to adapt to life in England.
Considering that several teams are said to be keeping tabs on the winger, Leeds are certainly in the right market. The price tag will be a worry, however, with Leeds needing to pay off unpaid transfer fees this summer.
In other Leeds news, developments have occurred in Diego Llorente’s situation with Roma.
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