‘Leeds want to sign Diouf’ as £17.25m bid submitted
El Hadji Malick Diouf is reportedly a transfer target for Leeds United this summer.
Leeds are aware of the importance of a strong defence in the Premier League and have spent the summer bringing in reinforcements.
Centre back Jaka Bijol was one of the first signings for Daniel Farke’s side, while Sebastiaan Bornauw has completed his medical at Elland Road.
And now with Max Wober seemingly on his way out the door, United have identified Diouf as a viable option to strengthen their backline.
Leeds can pull ahead of West Ham for Diouf
It has been widely reported that West Ham are determined to bring Diouf to the London Stadium this summer, but Leeds are in a good position to beat them to his signature.
While the Senegalese defender is unknown to most, his proficiency in both defensive and attacking roles makes him an excellent market opportunity for Leeds.
| Player | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Minutes |
| El Hadji Malick Diouf | 83 | 16 | 6 | 5.716′ |
According to a report from the print edition of the Sunday Mirror (6 July, page 77), Slavia Prague are looking for a £21.6million package with an initial fee of £17.25m for the defender.
Leeds, along with Nottingham Forest and Atalanta, have shown an interest in Diouf, with West Ham leading the race at this time.
However, the Irons saw their opening bid worth £17.25m with add-ons rebuffed by the Czech club, which allows United to swoop in and steal him from under their noses.
Diouf’s reportedly attracting more attention after his impressive performance in Senegal’s 3-1 win over England at the City Ground last month.
Diouf could be an excellent addition for Leeds
Diouf could be an unlikely source of strength for Leeds’ Premier League campaign next season.
Indeed, the left-footed player is known for his versatility and can play as a left-back, left midfielder or even in the central midfield. Furthermore, he has a strong physical presence, which would help him to adapt to the physicality of the Premier League.
But in what would be a huge boost for Leeds, Diouf is almost as good going forward as he is at the back. The 20-year-old often makes runs down the left flank before putting an inch-perfect cross into the box.
This would give the former Championship side several dynamic options when progressing the ball forward, while being a challenge for opposition defences to contain.
Therefore, Leeds should look to do everything they can to bring him to Elland Road this summer.
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