Leeds United are reportedly looking to sign Brest left-back Romain Perraud this summer, and the links are genuine – given they have come from the most-reliable of sources when it comes to Leeds, in the form of The Athletic’s Phil Hay. However, Leeds are not the only club to have become aware of Perraud’s stunning form in the colours of Brest.
Perraud, 23, has had a hand in eight goals for 26 Ligue 1 outings this season. The left-back has scored three goals and laid on five more in assists, which has seen Leeds become interested. They might need a left-back in the summer, with Gjanni Alioski out of contract in June – and Stuart Dallas being used elsewhere in other positions to cover injured teammates.
Leeds are being linked with Perraud, and certainly, it would see Marcelo Bielsa manage to finally solve his left-back issue since joining the club. Barry Douglas failed to nail down that role, while Alioski has been used just as often as Dallas this season – but once again, another left-sided defender is required at Elland Road and Perraud looks like their first choice.
However, Perraud’s exceptional form is unlikely to have only attracted Leeds as suitors. During an interview with MadeInFoot, the story claims that two clubs are considering a move for Perraud – who has been called up to France’s Under-21 side. They are Champions League clubs Lyon and Marseille – the latter of whom was once managed by Marcelo Bielsa.
So, which would Perraud prefer? Well, remaining in France and joining clubs that are fighting for European qualification next season is surely going to be preferred. Lyon sit in third place behind PSG and Lille and if the season finishes in the same way, they will qualify for the Champions League. Marseille have less chance of Europe, sitting in eighth.
But Leeds boast financial power and of course, the chance to play in the Premier League. Leeds also propose an attractive position right now – given Bielsa looks set to enter his fourth season in the Elland Road dugout. Bielsa’s style of play could also prove tempting for Perraud – and that might give Leeds the edge. Time will tell.
