Sheffield United now ahead of Leeds in race to sign ‘quality’ Premier League player

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Leeds United and Sheffield United look set for yet another transfer battle in the closing stages of the window.

The two clubs have been in the race for a number of the same targets this summer and have also managed to sign players from one another.

First, Sheffield United were able to persuade Jamie Shackleton to snub a new deal at Elland Road in favour of a move to South Yorkshire, with Leeds then managing to praise Jayden Bogle the other way.

In terms of targets, both clubs were in the running to sign Callum O’Hare on a free transfer, race which Sheffield United went onto win.

And business may not stop there, either, with Leeds having seen a £13 million bid rejected for Gustavo Hamer, an offer which will have no doubt left Chris Wilder fuming.

• READ MORE: £12m player is ‘expected’ to leave club before deadline and Leeds United are interested

Sheffield United lead Leeds and Burnley for Philip Billing

A potential exit for Hamer, whether to Leeds or elsewhere, is likely to force Sheffield United into the market for another midfielder.

Leeds are reported to have agreed personal terms with Hamer ahead of a potential deal, though reports from the local media suggest the Whites won’t be bidding again.

Now according to Alan Nixon, a new name can be added to Leeds’ list of midfield targets in Bournemouth’s Philip Billing.

Nixon has written on his Patreon channel that both Leeds and Burnley have been credited with an interest, but it is the Blades currently pushing hardest.

It is said Billing could be available in the final few days of the window after falling out of favour at Bournemouth, and Sheffield United’s prospective new owners could use their links with the Cherries to make a move.

• READ MORE: Leeds United are in talks for new attacking signing but now face competition from Ligue 1 club

Leeds have to move for Billing if Hamer fails

With a move for Hamer looking over before it has even started, Leeds need to be looking at the ‘quality‘ Billing as a more than viable alternative.

Billing has an excellent record at this level and scored 10 goals from midfield during the season Bournemouth won promotion in 2021/22.

He would also add plenty of height and experience to a Leeds side which isn’t blessed with either, and is likely to be available for less than Sheffield United’s Hamer asking price.

This really feels like a deal Leeds cannot afford to miss out on, particularly to a side likely to be battling alongside the Whites for promotion.