Leeds United now want Ligue 1 right-back with 42 caps for African nation, contract ends in 2026

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Leeds United are likely to be in the market for a new right-back this summer with The Whites losing a few options in that position – and a Ligue 1 defender is reportedly on the club’s radar.

Archie Gray’s move to Tottenham comes after Connor Roberts returned to Burnley after his loan at Leeds. Roberts is said to be keen on a return to Leeds from Burnley, but it remains to be seen is that may occur.

Luke Ayling has of course joined Middlesbrough permanently after a loan on Teesside, while Sheffield United have signed Jamie Shackleton on a free. Cody Drameh is out of contract and now a free agent.

Leeds then are lacking in options on the right side of the defence with Sam Byram the only option, after signing a one-year deal. But Daniel Farke will know that Byram cannot be trusted to stay injury free.

• READ MORE: Leeds player expected to complete permanent exit on Sunday

Leeds United in race to sign Montpellier and Mali defender

Roberts is likely to sit high on a list of possible signings on the right of defence, while Trai Hume is one player Leeds are said to be looking at. Another is Montpellier and 42-time Mali international Falaye Sacko.

The 29-year-old defender has impressed at Montpellier over the last couple of seasons, initially joining on loan in 2022 before completing a permanent move to the Ligue 1 side last summer, playing 55 matches.

That number would have been a lot more had he not gone to the African Cup of Nations in January with Mali. Returning in February, he lost his place in Montpellier’s side and is now keen on finding a new club.

Leeds not alone in race for Falaye Sacko with Palace keen

A report from Africa Foot state that Russian side FK Khimki have made an ambitious move to get Sacko. But Hadi’s namesake is likely to want to remain in one of Europe’s top leagues given interest in him.

The story says that Leeds and Crystal Palace have also shown interest in Sacko, as have other clubs from Turkey, Italy and France. It is unclear how much cash interested parties would have to spend to sign him.

But Leeds are one of the clubs interested and it is likely that Farke looks to add some more experience to his side. As things stand, only one signing has been made in the form of Joe Rodon for a fee of £10m.