Leeds United may have their work cut out if they hope to finalise a move for Weston McKennie, with La Repubblica in Italy reporting that Arsenal have made a bid for the American.
McKennie appears to have emerged as the Whites’ top target ahead of the final days of the January transfer window. Fabrizio Romano reported that Leeds are in talks with Juventus after agreeing personal terms with the USMNT international.
Leeds’ offer appears to be around £6 million short of what Juve want for the 24-year-old. Gianluca Di Marzio reports that the Old Lady want £30.8 million for McKennie.
McKennie has offer from Arsenal, as well as Leeds
What will not help Leeds is that they are not the only Premier League side pursuing McKennie, it seems.
In fact, La Repubblica reports that Arsenal have made an offer of their own for the midfielder. And he is, understandably, interested in joining the Gunners.
It is claimed that Arsenal’s offer is close to £26.4 million. So it would appear that they are also short of meeting Juventus’ asking price for McKennie.
Of course, Arsenal have been dealt a big blow in this window with Mohamed Elneny out injured. Mikel Arteta was unable to shut down rumours that he could miss the rest of the season.
Signing a new midfielder appears to be essential for their title charge. And you can understand why McKennie is on their radar.
His time at Juve has not really got going. Nevertheless, he is a superb talent who should thrive in an energetic Premier League team.
Obviously, Leeds have that energy in abundance. But Mikel Arteta has got Arsenal playing a brand of football which is relentless at times.
McKennie is much more likely to play regularly at Leeds. And it seems that neither side has offered what Juventus want for him.
But links with Arsenal highlight the risk Leeds are possibly taking by trying to negotiate a lower price.
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