Leeds submit opening offer to sign “tenacious” £25m defender over Man City
With the January transfer window fast approaching, Leeds United have reportedly made their opening bid in an effort to beat Manchester City to the signature of a £25m-rated defender.
Leeds United Transfer News
As Leeds find themselves once again battling for promotion, the January transfer window could be crucial for their push. Already, key player Pascal Struijk has been linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur, potentially mirroring Archie Gray’s summer departure.
Struijk is an important part of Daniel Farke’s team, and losing him mid-season would be a significant setback for Leeds. However, the club also has the opportunity to strengthen during the winter window and has been linked with players like Emiliano Buendia, who has struggled for regular playing time since returning from injury and is eager to regain his form.
Instead of an attacking reinforcement, however, 49ers Enterprises appear to be focusing on a defensive signing next month. According to Top Mercato, Leeds have already made an opening offer to sign Abdukodir Khusanov, ahead of competition from Manchester City, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur.
Leeds’ reported offer of €20m (£17m) is likely to fall short, as RC Lens are said to value the 20-year-old centre-back at around €30m (£25m) for his release this January. Whether Leeds are willing to meet this asking price remains to be seen, but Khusanov is certainly a player to watch.
At just 20 years old, the Uzbekistan international has attracted considerable interest and will likely face a tough decision if Leeds intensify their pursuit next month.
“Tenacious” Khusanov Could Replace Struijk
Considering Leeds’ history of losing key players, it’s no surprise that the club is being linked with a young central defender who could quickly step in to mitigate the potential loss of Struijk.
While Struijk remains a key player under Farke, circumstances can change quickly at Elland Road, and Leeds cannot afford to lose their best defender without an adequate replacement. Khusanov, with his impressive numbers and potential, could fill that void.
Described as “tenacious” by Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig, Khusanov’s best football is yet to come. Given the interest from top clubs like Manchester City and Spurs, Leeds face competition, but after submitting their initial offer, they will be hoping it’s Farke’s side that secures this talented defender’s signature.
