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Leeds chief Kinnear talks chances of big transfer to ‘shut up’ rumours

Leeds United chief executive Angus Kinnear has insisted that there is little chance of his club signing Udinese midfielder Rodrigo de Paul this summer.

The Whites head into the upcoming transfer window looking to progress after a solid first season back in the Premier League. On the managerial front, reports have emerged that Marcelo Bielsa’s future is all but secure; the Argentine is on the verge of agreeing a new deal at Elland Road.

As such, focus can properly turn to how to take Leeds to the next level with new additions.

De Paul is one player who has had links with a move to Elland Road for some time. The Whites reportedly had interest in the player, but Bielsa did not end up making any additions to his midfield.

Nevertheless, those links remain. In fact, Leeds and Liverpool are reported to be leading the charge for Bielsa’s fellow Argentine, with AC Milan ending their pursuit.

According to Kinnear, though, Leeds are also not in the race.

He told The Athletic journalist Phil Hay’s podcast: “If we had the money, I think we would just buy him, just to shut you guys up.

“I don’t think that one has any legs.”

De Paul will supposedly cost prospective suitors €40million (£34million), a price which is too high for Leeds.

However, the desire for new signings remains, with winger targets emerging for the Whites.

Club Brugge’s Noa Lang is on their radar, as is exciting African Abdallah Sima from Slavia Prague.

Leeds transfer exit collapses

As well as potential incomings, Ezgjan Alioski is one player who is likely to leave Leeds at the end of the season.

His contract expires at the end of the season and he has been linked with a move to Galatasaray.

However, the Turkish club have reportedly ended their pursuit for three reasons.

READ MORE: Alioski Leeds to Galatasaray transfer talks end for three reasons

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