Leeds United can now sign defender in ‘outstanding form’ on a free, 49ers tabled £2.5m bid just six months ago

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The need for a centre-back remains at Leeds United with Ethan Ampadu currently filling in alongside Joe Rodon while Pascal Struijk is on the sidelines, and Max Wober struggling for game time.

Ethan Ampadu continued to partner Joe Rodon at centre-back on Wednesday night as Leeds United went 11 games unbeaten, securing a 2-0 win over Norwich City. Dan James and Manor Solomon got the goals.

Back on top of the Championship table, but Leeds are lacking cover in the middle of the defence. Wober has been unable to overcome knee issues while Struijk may be out for months, instead of just weeks.

It might tempt Leeds into the January transfer window to sign a defender. One player that has been linked with The Whites this season has just rejected a new contract and is set to become a free agent.

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Leeds United have chance to move for Jordan Torunarigha

Germany-born Nigeria international Jordan Torunarigha has been starring in Belgium alongside Max Dean for Gent. But before the start of the season, Leeds saw a £2.5m bid to sign Torunarigha rejected.

Indeed, Gent wanted £4.5m and that was the end of that. But now, Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg has an update, saying Torunarigha has rejected a contract with his current deal due to expire come June.

He said on X: “Jordan Torunarigha is on the verge of a move. The 27-year-old center-back, currently under contract with Gent until 2025, has rejected a concrete extension offer from the club,” Plettenberg said.

“His desire: a transfer to one of the top 5 leagues. A winter transfer is not off the table, as the defender is in outstanding form and having a strong season. Inquiries have already been made,” the journalist added.

Leeds may find same bid may now be accepted for Torunarigha

That bid was made, and Gent’s rejection came under the impression that there was still a chance Gent could keep Torunarigha. Having rejected a new deal, Gent have less than two weeks to rake in some cash.

Torunarigha is a top defender, one with more than 70 appearances in the Bundesliga and Belgium’s top tier. Left-footed too, meaning he would be well-adept if replacing Struijk in the Leeds starting line-up.

Daniel Farke said Ampadu is not the long-term solution at centre-back and if Struijk is missing for more than a few weeks, Leeds must move. If Leeds replicate their £2.5m bid, it is more likely to be accepted.