AliousLeeds United have received a boost in their pursuit of a reported transfer target.
Although the transfer window doesn’t officially open until June 14, the club’s behind-the-scenes team is already working hard to strengthen the squad ahead of pre-season.
Last summer, Leeds didn’t make a single signing until the third week of July, which proved costly in their quest for promotion.
Determined to avoid a repeat, they are eager to act swiftly this time around.
Last year, 49ers Enterprises were still completing a takeover and hiring a manager, but chairman Paraag Marathe insists they are better positioned now to capitalize on the market.
Despite some key players needing to leave to comply with PSR, Marathe confirms that funds will be available for new signings.
Leeds handed boost in Bobby De Cordova-Reid pursuit
While loans and free agents remain crucial markets for Championship clubs, Leeds have already been linked with a few targets, including Chelsea’s Alfie Gilchrist for a loan.
Recent reports suggest Leeds are eyeing Fulham attacker Bobby De Cordova-Reid, who is out of contract at the end of the month.
Team Talk claims that talks between De Cordova-Reid and Fulham have stalled, with Leeds and Everton keen to take advantage.
However, the Liverpool Echo reports that Everton are not interested, giving Leeds a clear run at the 31-year-old’s signature.
If De Cordova-Reid hits the free agent market, more clubs might show interest, but currently, Leeds appear to be the only ones in the race.
Who is reported Leeds target De Cordova-Reid?
De Cordova-Reid is an experienced, versatile attacking player, primarily competing in the top two divisions of English football.
Capable of playing both centrally and out wide, his best season was in 2017/18 with Bristol City, where he scored 19 Championship goals.
The Jamaican international spent a year at Cardiff City before joining Fulham in 2019, with whom he has twice won promotion to the Premier League.
Former manager Scott Parker praised him as an ‘unbelievable professional,’ known for his consistent fitness.
De Cordova-Reid scored eight goals in Fulham’s 2021/22 title-winning campaign and netted six in 17 Premier League starts this term.
The future of returning loanees is another significant topic for Leeds United this summer.
After relegation from the Premier League, eight first-team players took advantage of loan clauses to move on.
Only Luis Sinisterra and Robin Koch secured permanent exits, leaving Leeds back at square one.
Despite failing to win promotion, only two of the six loanees have the option to leave on loan again, with Jack Harrison expected to return to Everton and Marc Roca likely heading for a second loan spell at Real Betis.
Marathe confirms the club is in a stronger position this time around.
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