Leeds now battling Victor Orta to sign AC Milan defender this summer, he could replace Junior Firpo

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Leeds United have identified an AC Milan player as a potential target at left-back this summer.

The Whites could well be in the market for reinforcements in that position depending on the future of Junior Firpo, who is wanted elsewhere.

Firpo is reportedly in talks over a return to Real Betis and is already said to have agreed personal terms ahead of a move, with the 27-year-old clearly keen to leave.

That would leave Daniel Farke with just one recognised full-back in his senior squad, having already lost Connor Roberts, Archie Gray, Jamie Shackleton, and previously Luke Ayling.

Sam Byram has the ability to cover on both sides, but clearly can’t be in both places at once and also cannot be relied on to play every week.

Leeds battling Watford for AC Milan defender Fode Ballo-Toure

Reports emerged earlier today that Leeds have earmarked Spain-born Ireland U21 star Anselmo MacNulty as a potential replacement for Firpo, however it would appear he is not the only one on the list.

According to Foot Mercato, Leeds are also monitoring the situation of AC Milan’s Fode Ballo-Toure, who spent last season on loan at Fulham.

Ballo-Toure only made eight appearances across all competitions at Craven Cottage as he struggled to dislodge first choice option Antonee Robinson.

However, he has plenty of experience under his belt from spells at Milan and AS Monaco, with Leeds one of the clubs keen on signing him.

It is said Ballo-Toure has already rejected the chance to join Turkish side Besiktas, as he holds out for a move to one of the other clubs interested.

Watford, Sevilla and Celta Vigo are reported to be the other three who are keeping a close eye on how his situation develops.

Who is Leeds target Fode Ballo-Toure?

Ballo-Toure would be a like-for-like replacement for Firpo both in terms of experience and position.

At 27, he is the same age, and has also spent the entirety of his career playing in top-flight leagues, the majority of which came in Ligue 1 at AS Monaco and Lille.

Ballo-Toure has been capped on 16 occasions at international level by Senegal, and would clearly be a decent coup for Leeds while they are in the Championship.

Given competition from the likes of Sevilla, though, it may well prove to be a difficult deal to get done.