Manuel Benson has emerged as a target for Leeds United this month with Willy Gnonto’s future up in the air, but it looks as if Southampton have stolen a march on Leeds – by opening talks for him.
It comes after reports last week said that Leeds are ‘pushing’ to sign 26-year-old Benson, who starred in the Championship last season – having a hand in 18 goals in 37 games for Vincent Kompany’s Burnley.
The report claimed that Leeds were looking to replace Willy Gnonto, who was edging towards a move to West Ham. That of course, has changed with new reports stating Gnonto is close to a new Leeds deal.
But, our interest in Belgian ace Benson may remain – with his future at Burnley in doubt after managing just five appearances for the Clarets during the first half of the season. He has a contract until 2027.
Leeds may miss out now, though. Benson is said to be keen on a move to Southampton and now, Sky’s Mark McAdam says that while Leeds are interested – Southampton have made an approach for Benson.
Southampton open talks for Leeds United target Manuel Benson
Clearly, a player that knows how to do it in the Championship after impressing last season and with his Burnley deal worth just £29,000 a week, he is affordable. But it looks like he could be off to a direct rival.
Leeds have options out wide and with Gnonto seemingly staying put, alongside Cree Summerville, Dan James, Ian Poveda and Jaidon Anthony – it is an area of the Leeds squad that does not require addition.
Only, if Leeds sell one. With Gnonto now set to sign a new deal at Elland Road, which comes as a bit of a surprise, then it seems our interest in Benson will now subside. Southampton are set to strike.
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