Schmidt exit conditions emerge as Leeds United move for new right-back
Leeds United are making a clear statement of intent with their activity in this summer’s transfer window.
The Whites have signed a multitude of experienced stars, proving to everyone that they’re serious about re-establishing themselves as a Premier League club.
What’s more, it seems as if their recruitment drive isn’t over yet.
News from Germany suggests Daniel Farke‘s side not be finished with their defensive recruitment, which could see Isaac Schmidt finally depart.
Schmidt reports suggest Leeds are close to signing a new right-back
The right-back position has been identified as a potential area for improvement for Leeds, and the club are believed to be in talks with FC Lugano defender Mattia Zanotti.
Fulham and AS Monaco are also believed to be interested in Zanotti, although it appears that Leeds are in the driving seat for this transfer.
A report from Deich Stube (5 August) adds weight to these claims. The German publication suggests that Werder Bremen will buy Leeds’ current right-back Isaac Schmidt as soon as the Whites find a replacement, and that the German remain optimistic about completing the deal soon.
Schmidt started the weekend friendly against Villarreal, but it seems certain his future lies away from Elland Road.
The signing of Zanotti would further strengthen a Leeds defence which has already been boosted by the signings of Jaka Bijol and Gabriel Gudmundsson.
Leeds signings will give them fighting chance of avoiding relegation
Leeds fans will surely be proud of the ambition that their club has shown in the transfer market this summer.
The club has not only spent lots of money, but they’ve signed experienced players who are proven at the highest level.
The spine of the team now looks particularly strong with
- Lucas Perri in goal
- Bijol and Sebastiaan Bornauw marshalling the defence
- Anton Stach and Sean Longstaff controlling the midfield
- Lukas Nmecha leading the line
Nmecha is the only one of these who could be considered somewhat of a gamble, as he hasn’t had the chance to prove himself in the Premier League.
If Leeds could wish for one more signing, it would likely be for another proven goalscorer to compete with him for a place up front.
Even so, the signing of Zanotti would be another step in the right direction as Leeds prepare for their opening league game against Everton on 18 August.
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