Leeds bid £8m for ‘incredibly talented’ player last summer who could now become his country’s number one

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Leeds United have a history in years gone by of finding the right targets, but being unable to get them over the line.

Victor Orta almost made it his trademark during his time as Leeds‘ sporting director. Rodrigo de Paul, Josko Gvardiol, Cody Gakpo and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are just some of the names who have gone onto do big things since being linked with moves to Elland Road.

More recently, Leeds already look as though they will regret not being able to sign Gustavo Hamer, whether that from Coventry City in 2023, or Sheffield United in August.

Leeds wanted Hamer after relegation from the Premier League, but he instead chose a move to Bramall Lane. A £13 million bid was then lodged for Hamer last month, but the Blades said no.

And there is now another one to add to the list, with a target from last summer reportedly set to become his country’s number one.

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Former Leeds target Alexander Nubel could become Germany no.1

In the wake of relegation last season, it had looked as though Leeds were in need of a new number one.

After a torrid end to the campaign all signs were pointing towards an Illan Meslier exit. However, for whatever reason, a move never materialised.

Prior to signing Karl Darlow – who unwantedly ended up coming in as backup – Leeds had been interested in Bayern Munich goalkeeper Alexander Nubel.

Leeds were even said to have offered £8 million for Nubel but he was reluctant to drop down into the Championship and instead joined Stuttgart, a decision which has proved inspired.

The ‘incredibly talented‘ Nubel is now playing regularly in the Champions League after a third place finish in his debut season. According to Bild, that is set to see him heavily rewarded on the international stage.

With Manuel Neuer having retired from international football, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen set for eight months on the sidelines, Germany are in need of a new number one.

It is said Nubel is now one of the prime candidates to take over the role, with many actually viewing him as the favourite to do so. Another what if as far as Leeds are concerned.

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Nubel could’ve been difference for Leeds

Though Farke still believes Meslier is the Championship’s best goalkeeper, Nubel could’ve been the difference last season.

Leeds lost eight games by just one goal last season and in so many of them, it was the opposition scoring from one of their only real chances.

Sunderland away, for example, Meslier being rooted to his line allowed Jobe Bellingham to score. His red card was costly at Preston North End, and he was beaten at his near post in that draw at Rotherham United.

Nubel, on the other hand, helped Stuttgart to Champions League football and is now Germany’s number one. Quite clearly he is a level above and so it is no surprise Leeds were keen to sign him last summer.