Sky Italy journalist Gianluca Di Marzio claims Claudio Ranieri’s Cagliari are set to complete the signing of AZ Alkmaar defender Pantelis Chatzidiakos amid reports Leeds United were keen – and even agreed terms with the Greece star.
Chatzidiakos, 26, has starred for AZ over the last eight years, clocking up 209 outings for the Dutch side. Last term, he helped them reach the Europa Conference League semi-finals – only to be knocked out by winners West Ham.
His form has caught the eye. Greek outlet Sporttime claimed earlier this month that Leeds had agreed terms to sign him. A £2.2m bid had been tabled, but AZ were looking for a fee between £2.6m and £3.5m for their centre-back.
Leeds have since signed Joe Rodon and the trail has gone cold. Di Marzio now claims Serie A side Cagliari are set to complete the arrival of Chatzidiakos – a club managed by Ranieri. A deal is close, and he will move on permanently.
Claudio Ranieri set to sign Pantelis Chatzidiakos amid Leeds reports
Leeds need signings. But, if there are one or two positions where Leeds are currently strong enough – it is probably at centre-back and in goal. The signing of Joe Rodon leaves Leeds with three current, available first-team options.
Pascal Struijk, Charlie Cresswell and new signing Rodon. Liam Cooper is expected back by the end of September, after injury on the opening day. Ethan Ampadu and Luke Ayling can cover in the middle. We are well-stocked there.
But clearly, the Greek ace is a top player and so much so that Cagliari are willing to hang their hat on him – not even signing him on loan initially, but instead bringing him in on a permanent basis. A good signing for Ranieri’s Cagliari.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
