Alious
Leeds United are reportedly among several clubs interested in signing Steaua Bucharest’s centre-back Joyskim Dawa during the January transfer window. However, recent reports suggest that Premier League side Fulham have also been in talks with the player’s representatives.
The Whites are currently facing a shortage of options in both midfield and centre-back positions due to injuries to key players Ethan Ampadu, Ilia Gruev, and Max Wöber. This situation is expected to persist until January, leaving the club with limited choices. While signing a free agent remains an option until the transfer window opens, Leeds appear to be already scouting potential targets for the upcoming window.
According to the Mirror, Leeds United are one of several clubs considering a January move for Joyskim Dawa. The 6’4″ defender, described as a “late bloomer,” has been putting in impressive performances for Steaua Bucharest in the Europa League this season. His availability for transfer has been confirmed by his manager, making him an attractive prospect for interested clubs.
Dawa’s contract is believed to include a release clause of £4 million, and his representatives are confident in his ability to perform at the highest level. This combination of factors has attracted attention from several clubs, including Premier League sides.
Fulham have reportedly taken their interest a step further by holding talks with Dawa’s representatives as recently as this month. Other clubs in the mix include Leicester City, Everton, and Burnley, presenting stiff competition for Leeds in their pursuit of the French defender.
Dawa’s stock rose further following an impressive performance in a 1-0 away victory against PAOK in the Europa League. This match was attended by numerous scouts from the UK and abroad, just before the international break, further fueling interest in the player.
Given the level of interest from Premier League clubs, it may be challenging for Leeds to compete with offers from top-flight teams. However, the need for defensive reinforcements at Elland Road is clear. The current injury to Wöber has left Leeds without senior cover at centre-back, while the absence of Ampadu and Gruev until at least the new year has also depleted their midfield options.
To prevent similar crises in the future, it seems ideal for Leeds to consider signing a new centre-back to provide depth behind Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk. This addition would help bolster the squad and provide much-needed cover in defensive positions.
The article concludes with a personal note from the author, a Leeds United season ticket holder since the 2013/14 season, who has witnessed the club’s ups and downs at Elland Road, from the highs of Pablo Hernandez’s performances to the lows of 5-1 defeats.
Alious
