Why Leeds have fresh Igor Paixao transfer hope as Marseille problem emerges

Leeds United have been linked with Brazilian winger Igor Paixao this summer.

Paixao has been a long-term target for Daniel Farke, as last summer a deal was also eyed for the South American.

However, Paixao ultimately chose to make his move to Marseille from Feyenoord.

A year on, the links have re-emerged and the 26-year-old could already been on his way out of the south of France.

As the Ligue 1 side look to reinvest into their squad for the upcoming season, they are being unintentionally held back.

And Paixao has been earmarked as a solution.

How Leeds can pounce on Marseille issues in Igor Paixao deal

Leeds' interest in Paixao is simply that at this stage.

The winger is highly-regarded at Elland Road, but no contact has yet to be made over a deal for Paixao.

However, sights will be kept on Marseille this summer as the opportunity to strike a deal could emerge based on the Ligue 1 side's financial issues.

And it appears that is already starting to cause problems for the nine-time French champions.

According to Leeds Live, Marseille have agreed a deal to sign Haissem Hassan from Real Oviedo.

But due to those aforementioned financial concerns, they have to raise funds before they can bring the Egyptian to Ligue 1, with Paixao earmarked as likely candidate to help ease those problems.

Additionally, according to United Radio 97.6 Marseille, Paixao will "almost certainly" depart this summer.

So, with Paixao blocking the deal to bring Hassan to France, albeit unintentionally and by proxy, the French side will have to seek a solution, with Leeds among those that can pounce.

What the race for Paixao looks like now

Leeds are not the only side that have an eye on Paixao this summer, with Aston Villa also mooted as a potential destination.

The Villans would have the advantage in terms of attractiveness, due to them playing in the Champions League.

But, if Leeds can act quickly, they could put themselves ahead of the Birmingham-based club.

Unai Emery's squad is already stocked with wingers, with the likes of Emi Buendia, Alejandro Garnacho, Alysson, Evan Guessand and Leon Bailey among their ranks

However, the latter two do seem likely to leave this summer, and once they depart, Emery may then make his move.

All in all, if Paixao is still highly sought after by Leeds, there is no better time to try and negotiate, especially with Marseille desperate to solve their money issues.