The upcoming winter transfer window looks set to present Leeds with many opportunities.
Intermediaries are speaking to Leeds about a deal for Ruben Vargas as the Switzerland international prepares to leave Sevilla.
Harry Wilson may also be on the move, after hinting at a January exit from Fulham ahead of a potential World Cup campaign with Wales.
Would you sign Harry Wilson next summer, when his contract ends? 🪄
He's still out of contract.
Another opportunity has now arisen for the 49ers as El Chadaille Bitshiabu targets a move away from RB Leipzig, a player Leeds wanted to sign in 2023 before losing out to the Bundesliga side.
Fabrizio Romano hints Leeds United might have already asked about El Chadaille Bitshiabu
Fabrizio Romano now states that the France U20 international is keen to leave RB Leipzig in search of playing time, having only made three Bundesliga appearances this season – two of which have come as a substitute.
It comes after Jeunes Footeux revealed in February 2023 that Leeds wanted to sign Bitshiabu, before those at Elland Road ultimately lost out as RB Leipzig sealed a €15m (£13m) agreement with PSG in July 2023.
Romano claims Premier League clubs have already enquired about the central defender’s situation, offering a strong hint that Leeds might be among those to have asked following the interest in 2023.
The reliable Italian journalist wrote on X (previously known as Twitter): “Understand El Chadaille Bitshiabu could leave RB Leipzig in the January transfer window. 20-year-old defender will be one to watch as Premier League clubs asked about the situation in the last days.
“Bitshiabu, currently not happy with his playing time.”
Daniel Farke could use a young central defender for squad depth in the long term, with Jaka Bijol now part of a back three alongside Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk rather than a backup option.
However, that in itself serves up a reason for Bitshiabu to reject Leeds, as the Frenchman seems to be keen on becoming a regular starter as he struggles for action in Leipzig.
Summer deal would make more sense for Leeds United
As precocious a talent Bitshiabu is, Daniel Farke doesn’t have much of an immediate need for another centre-back.
Do Leeds even NEED signings after enjoying success with a 3-5-2 formation?
Sebastiaan Bornauw is already available as a backup option for Leeds and has received little playing time this season – he has been on the pitch for just two minutes in the Premier League.
Therefore, it would be a waste of precious funds to sign Bitshiabu now, although a summer deal is certainly worth exploring if the defender fails to find a new side this winter.
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