Vladimir Coufal makes transfer decision post Leeds United approach
Leeds United are reportedly keen on signing Vladimir Coufal as he’s set to leave West Ham this summer.
The 32-year-old’s contract at the London Stadium is running out and he will not be extending his stay in the capital.
After five years with the Hammers, the Czech Republic international will seek pastures new in the coming weeks.
Coufal decides to stay in the Premier League
According to Caught Offside (12 June), the right-back is on the radar of a number of top-flight clubs.
Coufal has decided to stay put in the Premier League amid links to the likes of Everton, Fulham, Wolves and the Whites.
Fulham have been tracking him since January and retain an interest in his services this summer as well.
| Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Ham | 180 | 0 | 20 |
| Slovan Liberec | 158 | 6 | 10 |
| Slavia Prague | 88 | 7 | 9 |
| Hlucin | 14 | 0 | – |
| SFC Opava | 13 | 1 | – |
He may fancy a move to Everton as he shares a good working relationship with David Moyes.
The Scotsman was the West Ham manager and Coufal excelled under his stewardship for a few seasons.
Leeds are also serious about Coufal and have already made an approach to see if a transfer is possible (Ben Jacobs, 18 May)
Leeds United must prioritise Nico Elvedi over Coufal
Leeds United should prioritise signing Borussia Monchengladbach’s Nico Elvedi over Coufal for their defensive reinforcement this summer.
At 28, Elvedi offers longevity and versatility, capable of playing as a centre-back or right-back, unlike the 32-year-old Coufal, whose best days are behind him.
Elvedi’s 279 Bundesliga games, 13 goals and 16 assists showcase his composure, aerial dominance and ball-playing ability, aligning with Daniel Farke’s possession-based system.
Coufal’s age and declining pace contrast with Elvedi’s prime years and adaptability, seen in his 53 caps for Switzerland.
While Coufal’s experience is solid, his ceiling is lower and that’s one of the primary reasons why the Elland Road outfit must avoid signing him.
Elvedi’s £15million-£20million price tag is a worthwhile investment for Leeds’ survival push, offering a higher-calibre, modern defender to elevate their ambitions of becoming Premier League mainstays.