Leeds United continue to scour the market for new additions with Udinese’s Jaka Bijol expected to be the first signing this summer – but Leeds remain in the market for more defenders.
Slovenia and Udinese star Bijol has said yes to Leeds, with The Whites now locked in talks over agreeing a transfer fee with the Serie A side. A move is edging closer in what is being seen as a real coup for Leeds.
But The Whites need many additions this summer and they could even do with another centre-back after the signing of Bijol. Max Wober says Leeds have told him they intend to sell the Austrian this summer.
So, Leeds could do with another central defender as cover to go alongside Joe Rodon, Pascal Struijk and Bijol – which would allow Ethan Ampadu to remain in midfield. One option emerging is Juma Bah.
Photo by Pat Scaasi| MB Media/Getty ImagesLeeds United behind Southampton in race for Man City talent
Bought by Man City in January for £5m after impressing for La Liga side Real Valladolid, 19-year-old Bah was immediately loaned to Lens in France and played 10 times for the Ligue 1 side after his loan move.
Now back at Man City, the expectation is that Bah will go back out on loan this summer. Africa Foot say Leeds are among the clubs eyeing a move for the two-time Sierra Leone international, as are Paris FC.
The newly-promoted French side are one of several clubs to benefit from RedBull investment. Koln are also keen, while it is claimed that relegated Southampton are on pole despite being in the second tier.
It might be that City feel Bah will start more regularly for a team in the Championship, especially under the guidance of a manager in Will Still, who recently managed in Ligue 1 and has a proven faith in youth.
Photo by Matt Watson/Southampton FC via Getty Images
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Will Still boasts clear advantage in race for Juma Bah
Not only might Southampton boast an advantage because City would prefer to send him to a team where he will play regularly, but because Bah has a connection to Still. The new Saints gaffer signed him at Lens.
It saw Bah’s 10 appearances come under Still before the red-haired gaffer left France to join Southampton earlier this summer. Now, a reunion is on the cards and that may just tempt Bah to move to The Saints.
However, the lure and possibility of showcasing his talent in the Premier League will also be tempting if Bah can win assurances from Leeds that he would play. But understandably, Saints are winning the race.