Leeds United are expected to be in the market for a new midfielder before the August 30 deadline as Daniel Farke eyes late additions, but Leicester are set to sign one target for a £25m fee.
Following Saturday’s 0-0 draw against West Brom, Farke told reporters that he would like four signings before the close of play on August 30. Two of those are a new full-back, and a goalscoring midfielder.
He also wants replacements for Crysencio Summerville and Georginio Rutter, with the latter set to join Brighton. Nothing has been confirmed as of yet in regards to Rutter, but a deal is expected to go through.
Leeds have lost both Archie Gray and Glen Kamara this summer and only brought in Joe Rothwell on loan, as extra cover in the middle. Wales midfielder Charlie Crew is coming through but is yet to make a debut.
Leeds linked with Oliver Skipp and have tried to sign him
During the 2020-21 season in which Farke secured his second Championship title, the German had Oliver Skipp on loan from Tottenham. The talent started all but one of Norwich’s 46 league games that term.
He has since returned to Tottenham and broke into the first-team set-up but under Ange Postecoglou, has rarely got a look in at the North London club. Leeds have shown interest in signing Skipp from Spurs.
Leeds tried to include Skipp in a deal that saw Archie Gray move to Spurs, but it was rejected with Leeds at least getting Joe Rodon. But they were told no, with Skipp clearly wanting a Premier League move.
Leicester strike as Foxes agree £25m deal for Leeds target Skipp
Now, it looks as if he has got his wish. Tottenham are ready to offload the England U21 ace and Leicester have moved, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano who says a deal is worth an overall £25m fee.
Romano said on X: “Leicester City to pay £20m fixed fee plus £5m add-ons for Oliver Skipp. Tottenham authorized medical tests with contract to be signed and formal steps expected in the next 24h,” he added.
A proven Premier League player and Farke has described Skipp as a “top player”, Skipp would have been excellent business. But the lure of the Premier League and the £25m fee meant Leeds never had a chance.
Instead, he has joined Steve Cooper’s Leicester and will be tasked with offering some defensive protection around the Foxes defence. Certainly, it feel as if they are going to need it somewhere down the line.
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