Leeds United transfer news readers will know that Barry Douglas is likely to leave the club before deadline day and Watford are now front runners to sign the Scotsman.
Douglas made just 15 appearances for Leeds last season, failing to hold down a regular spot in Marcelo Bielsa’s Championship-winning squad.
The 31-year-old has failed to make the matchday squad for all four of Leeds’ Premier League fixtures this season and a move away from Elland Road could be on the cards.
The Athletic have confirmed that Watford are considering a move for the Scotsman as they look to bolster their squad with Championship experience.
Douglas was part of the Championship-winning Wolverhampton Wanderers squad in 2017/18 so he knows what it takes to win in the second tier of English football.
As of Saturday evening, an official bid has yet to be confirmed by either club but Douglas is likely to push for a summer exit as he enters the final year of his contract with the club.
There is no urgent need to enter negotiations though, with an extended deadline until later in October for domestic deals between Football League and Premier League teams.
Douglas isn’t the only Leeds player linked with a departure in the near future as Bielsa looks to focus his squad around a small group of core stars.
Bielsa is likely to sanction a departure for Douglas, with the Scotsman falling out of favour in recent months. Watch this space for Leeds United player rumours updates…
Rennes Star Raphinha Latest Name Linked
According to Goal France, Leeds have made an official move for Rennes winger Raphinha as the summer transfer window comes to a close.
The report states that Leeds are on the ‘offensive’ in their pursuit of the Brazilian and Marcelo Bielsa has spent a considerable amount of time trying to tempt the Ligue 1 side into a sale.
Leeds have made an initial offer for the 23-year-old but the transfer fee is unknown at this stage – though the Whites are unlikely to break the bank for Raphinha’s signature.
The winger had nine goals and five assists in 35 appearances in all competitions last season but it might be a tough challenge to force a deal through before the window slams shut.
Per Goal France, there is no agreement yet on the financial side of the contract with Rennes insinuating that the first offer failed to meet their valuation of the player.
Furthermore, a deal is reportedly complex due to work permit issues and a number of other problems that could arise. Rennes have been open with Leeds regarding a potential issue with the switch.
Leeds fans will be following the transfer news closely ahead of deadline day – Raphinha would be some coup as the Whites look to secure their Premier League status.
Credit for the main photo belongs to Oli Scarff / Pool via AP*
