Strap yourselves in folks – today’s Leeds United transfer news reports claim that Fernando Llorente could move to Elland Road before the end of the summer window.
According to Italian publication Tuttosport, Marcelo Bielsa’s side are interested in signing the Napoli striker in the coming weeks.
Bielsa himself is reportedly central to Leeds’ interest, with the Argentine showing great admiration for the former Tottenham Hotspur forward.
Various local websites have picked up on the story, many of which are respectable media sources, though Napoli are yet to confirm an official approach.
Llorente played in 17 Serie A games last season but started just three of those matches. He did, however, manage to score three goals and recorded one assist in his limited time on the pitch.
In addition, Llorente scored one goal in 86 minutes of Champions League football for Napoli last season – showing that he can do it on the biggest stage of all.
With Patrick Bamford and summer signing Rodrigo on the books, Leeds have a couple of competent strikers but adding Llorente in the mix cannot harm their survival hopes.
Llorente scored 15 Premier League goals for Swansea City back in 2016/17 and he could be the difference maker for Leeds if a deal can be agreed.
Former Player Backs Move For Chelsea Star
Michael Brown has urged Leeds to sign Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley on a season-long loan as the Whites look to avoid relegation.
The former Leeds midfielder suggests a switch to Elland Road could be just what Barkley needs to reignite his career – and it is a move that could benefit all parties.
Barkley has failed to inspire confidence during his tenure at Stamford Bridge and there is now a real competition for places after heavy spending in west London.
However, Brown states that Barkley is still capable of finding his best form – particularly if given a run in the first team at Elland Road.
“Ross would be returning back, he’s had a taste of it,” he told Football Insider.
“I played with Ross at Leeds. He’s a fabulous talent, he’s got everything. Over the years he’s matured, he’s got better with his understanding of the game and I think he will be some player if Leeds can get hold of him.”
Leeds Rival Europe’s Big Boys For Jens Petter Hauge
The Whites are leading the way to sign Bodo/Glimt attacking midfielder Jens Petter Hauge before the end of the summer transfer window according to reports in Italy.
However, Leeds face stiff competition from a number of Premier League clubs while AC Milan are also reportedly interested in the 20-year-old after catching the eye in their Europa League qualifier.
If Leeds miss out on Udinese midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, Hauge could be a viable replacement if he is still available.
Credit for the main photo belongs to Oli Scarff / Pool via AP*
