Leeds United and Sunderland suffer transfer blow as Japhet Tanganga’s preference emerges

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Japhet Tanganga is a man in demand for two reasons. Firstly, the Millwall star’s form, and secondly, Leeds United and other Premier League clubs have been alerted to his bargain release clause.

Tanganga joined Millwall initially on loan from Tottenham in January 2024 and after a successful loan he signed permanently. Tanganga has arguably been one of the best centre-backs in the Championship.

Had he been at Leeds, Sunderland, Burnley or Sheffield United, there is no doubt he would have been in the Championship Team of the Season. With Millwall failing to reach the play-offs, Tanganga could leave.

Initial reports said that Leeds and Sunderland were among the clubs interested, with Tanganga boasting a bargain £1.2m release clause. Crystal Palace and Scott Parker’s Burnley have also been touted with moves.

• READ MORE: Tottenham are willing to loan out midfielder on Leeds list, but only with a £15m clause

Leeds suffer blow as Japhet Tanganga preference revealed

Interest in Tanganga is going to be aplenty. An England U21 international, Tanganga is yet to hit his prime and at £1.2m, he is an utter bargain. Able to play in multiple positions, with Premier League experience.

But now, The Sun’s Alan Nixon provides an update. The transfer expert says that despite interest from a total of five Premier League clubs, Tanganga would actually prefer to leave English football as a whole.

Indeed, the former Tottenham star’s summer preference is a move to either Germany or France in the coming weeks and months. Tanganga has been linked with Italian clubs like Napoli in recent seasons.

Which other central defenders are on Leeds United’s radar?

Udinese and Slovenia defender Jaka Bijol has said yes to Leeds and agreed personal terms ahead of a £15m switch. Leeds are now locked in talks with Udinese over agreeing a fee for the giant defender.

Leeds have been linked with other centre-backs, too. The club are said to have opened talks with Atletico Madrid and Mozambique defender Reinildo Mandava, who can play as a centre-back or as a left-back.

Irish defender Dara O’Shea has been linked with Leeds, but O’Shea also seemed to say he would remain at Ipswich despite relegation. Most-recently, Leeds are said to be in the race for Man City’s Juma Bah.