Leeds United ready double new transfer as multi-million Diarra update emerges at Elland Road
Leeds United have already started making approaches as they prepare for the Premier League.
Daniel Farke is keen to add top-flight experience to his squad to make their survival battle a lot more comfortable.
The Whites are in desperate need of a goalkeeper to replace Illan Meslier, a left-back in case Junior Firpo leaves on a free transfer and a striker with doubts over Mateo Joseph and Joel Piroe’s abilities.
However, their first two moves are targeting a central defender and midfielder, judging by the latest developments.
Leeds make double transfer swoop amid £21.8m update
The Elland Road outfit are understood to have made a £21.8million bid for Strasbourg midfielder Habib Diarra.
A report from Graham Smyth (9 June) claims that the Whites have made moves for both the Senegal international and Jaka Bijol.
It states that they are very hopeful of luring the Udinese defender to LS11, while the former is less likely to happen with other clubs also pursuing his signature.
Farke will be encouraged by Leeds transfer plans
Staying in the Premier League will be a difficult job for Farke’s side, but if their business is solid, they have every chance to cause a shock on their return.
Diarra would be a brilliant addition as he has three seasons of experience in Ligue 1, one of the best leagues in Europe, as a box-to-box midfielder.
| Stats (Ligue 1) | Diarra |
| Matches | 30 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 5 |
| Minutes played | 2,356 |
In 30 matches this season, he notched five goals and four assists from midfield, which is a solid return, and it could help tremendously in the Peacocks’ survival bid if he can contribute often.
Meanwhile, Bijol has over 200 appearances in the Slovenian, Russian and Italian top flights and started 34 matches in Serie A last season.
The 26-year-old also has 62 caps for his country and would give the Whites legitimate backup at centre-back rather than relying on Ethan Ampadu to fill the role, as they did in the Championship.
He is an aggressive defender, especially good in the air, a threat from set pieces and could help Farke’s side in their build-up with his passing ability, his addition would be a very exciting one.