Leeds suffer big blow in pursuit of winger thought to be costing £20m
Leeds United have suffered a big blow in their pursuit of a winger who was thought to be costing them £20m, according to a report.
Leeds have started this season with a very similar team to the one they finished last season with. The only difference to the starting XI is Junior Firpo, who has been brought in from Barcelona. Aside from that, Jack Harrison is now a fully fledged Leeds player after his move from Manchester City was made permanent.
Goalkeeper Kristoffer Klaesson has also been added but only as a back-up to Illan Meslier. As such, it wouldn’t be out of the question to see some late arrivals at Elland Road.
One of the players strongly linked to the Whites is Noa Lang. The Club Brugge winger was said to be waiting for them to make their move.
Reports indicated personal terms had since been agreed. Although these claims have been denied by two respected journalists.
And now it seems a deal is growing further out of Leeds’ reach. Voetbal Primeur are reporting Brugge have raised their asking price for the 22-year-old.
The increase is a quite considerable 25%, taking the fee up to £25m. Despite looking to sell players, the Belgian club are not wanting to let Lang go.
It’s clear to see why this is their stance. After joining them from Ajax last year he has notched 19 goals and 15 assists from out wide in just 43 appearances.
Those numbers are seriously impressive and are what put Marcelo Bielsa on alert. The Leeds boss was very keen on signing the Dutch under-21 international.
But now Brugge have moved the goal posts, it remains to be seen if this is still the case. Even at £25m, Lang does seem a worthwhile and exciting investment.
Leeds exploring loan striker capture
Meanwhile, Leeds are also looking at American striker Daryl Dike as a transfer option this month, according to TEAMtalk sources.
Individuals close to Leeds have suggested a loan deal could be possible. He might be available to take on a temporary arrangement from MLS side Orlando City.
Dike spent the second half of last season on loan at Championship Barnsley, performing very well, bagging nine goals in 19 games.
The arrival of Dike would also tick boxes for Leeds’ American co-owners 49ers Enterprises, who would be delighted to see him arrive at Elland Road.
READ MORE: Bielsa tips forgotten Leeds man to shine after return in Carabao Cup win
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