Leeds United ended their search for a free agent signing with Josuha Guilavogui earlier this week and now League One side Wrexham are closing in on one of their reported targets.
Guilavogui put pen-to-paper on a short-term deal at Elland Road on Wednesday having been in attendance for both of Leeds‘ wins over Sheffield United and Watford.
The 34-year-old had been without a club since his release from Mainz over the summer and claims he turned down several offers in favour of joining Leeds.
Daniel Farke had been considering several options alongside Guilavogui following long-term injuries to both Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev, with the Leeds boss keen to add someone who can cover at the back and in midfield.
Guilavogui is someone who can do exactly that, and add leadership to one of the youngest squads in the Championship.
Wrexham set to sign Leeds target Matty James
Cheikhou Kouyate was among those invited to Thorp Arch in a bid to prove his fitness, and the Daily Mail have now added a new name to the list.
Francis Coquelin and Christoph Kramer were also mentioned as potential targets, though it has now been revealed Leeds were also considering Matty James.
James has been a free agent since being released by Leeds’ opponents this weekend Bristol City, and had been attracting interest both from the Whites and Coventry City.
However, with a deal ‘failing to materialise’ with both clubs, James now looks as though he is on his way to join ambitious League One side Wrexham.
Having won back-to-back promotions from the National League and League Two, Wrexham currently sit second in the third tier.
They have genuine belief a third successive promotion could be on the cards and former Leicester City star James is someone they believe can add to that.
Why Guilavogui was a better option than James for Leeds
One thing James has over Guilavogui is his long track record of playing in the Championship, but the Frenchman certainly fits Leeds’ current needs better.
Guilavogui’s last 90 minutes came as a centre-back and with Joe Rodon walking a suspension tightrope, and both Ampadu and Max Wober out injured, they needed another senior option there.
His first interview with the club also shows he knows exactly why he has been brought in. Guilavogui may not play much, but he can be a huge help off the field.
Guilavogui will be hoping to be in the squad for the first time when Leeds face Bristol City on Saturday.
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