Leeds United ready to buy powerhouse Eric Smith after promotion-winning season
Leeds United are set to go head to head with West Bromwich Albion to sign Eric Smith from St Pauli this summer, according to Sportbladet.
The Swedish outlet has reported (7 June) that the Whites are “prepared to buy Smith” after a successful season in Germany.
St Pauli achieved promotion to the Bundesliga as second-tier champions and that saw the centre-back called up for the Sweden national team squad but has since been forced to withdraw.
Now Leeds will face competition from Championship rivals West Brom to sign the 27-year-old this summer.
The German side are “reluctant to release” Smith after a positive campaign and with top-division football ahead of them.
Leeds United interested in Eric Smith
With Joe Rodon departing the Whites after his loan spell, there is certainly going to be a need for a new centre-back at Elland Road.
There is no guarantee that the Welshman will make a return to Leeds and so other options need to be considered this summer.
Smith could prove to be a useful option for Daniel Farke although his price may be inflated based on St Pauli’s promotion.
Standing at nearly six foot three he is a physical presence in the heart of the defence which could make him a star in the Championship.
With that being said, he will still suit Farke’s tactical set-up given that he is comfortable with the ball at his feet and likes to play from the back.
Should he want to move to England and depart from Bundesliga football, a move to Leeds could prove to be a great move as they look to achieve promotion.
In other Leeds news, a replacement for Summerville for just £8.5m has been mooted.
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