The #LUFC Breakfast Debate (Monday 30th June) - Leeds reeling as Sunderland steal Habib Diarra from under their noses
Good Morning. It's Monday 30th June, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Leeds reeling as Sunderland steal Habib Diarra from under their noses
Leeds United fans were left reeling on Friday afternoon as Sunderland stole Habib Diarra from under their noses in a deal worth £26.9 million fee, (plus £4m in add-ons). The Whites, who had been strongly linked with the Senegal international, found themselves onlookers as their rivals secured a significant coup.
Regis Le Bris see's Diarra as a direct replacement for Jobe Bellingham, who recently completed a high-profile transfer to German giants Borussia Dortmund. His acquisition therefore, represents not only a significant strengthening of their squad but also a definitive statement of intent from the Black Cats.
Diarra’s pedigree is undeniable. The Senegal international recently showcased his abilities on the international stage, scoring against England in their recent 3-1 victory, and has also represented France at various youth levels, highlighting his considerable talent and potential.
While it has been speculated that Leeds quickly matched Sunderland's offer, the ultimate decision appears to have favoured the Stadium of Light. Many believe that Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris played a pivotal role in Diarra's choice, possibly leveraging the odds in his favour.
With the Diarra pursuit ending in disappointment, attention has inevitably turned to Leeds' next move. Sky Sports Switzerland journalist Sacha Tavolieri has reported that Leeds are now understood to be in negotiations over personal terms with Union Saint-Gilloise midfielder Noah Sadiki, but face competition from Brentford and Burnley.
This suggests that Leeds are actively seeking a like-for-like replacement for the player they have just missed out on, and Sadiki, another young talent with considerable potential, could be the man to fill the void left by the failed Diarra move.
Progress made in Meslier negotiations
Turkish transfer specialist Ekrem Konur has exclusively revealed to the Breakfast Debate that progress is being made in negotiations between Leeds and Turkish outfit Fenerbahçe concerning the transfer of goalkeeper Illan Meslier. While speculation linking Meslier to a move to the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium has been circulating for a while, recent reports over the weekend suggest that discussions are now actively gaining momentum.
It is understood that Fenerbahçe have reportedly secured a broad agreement with both the player and Leeds United for Meslier's signature after re-negotiating the fee. Leeds wanted €10 million, whilst Fenerbahçe's valuation was quite a bit lower. It seems that a happy medium has been reached, paving the way for the French goalkeeper to potentially make the switch.
The expectation is that Meslier will be traveling to Istanbul this week to undergo his medical, a crucial step that could finalize his transfer to Fenerbahçe. This development signals a promising conclusion to prolonged negotiations, with both clubs and the player appearing to be on the cusp of an agreement.
Leeds still see Pope as preferred option between the sticks
It has been widely reported that Leeds still see Nick Pope at their preferred option to replace Illan Meslier between the sticks next season, but all rests on James Trafford moving to St James Park.
Trafford, who arrived at Turf Moor two years ago from Manchester City for a reported £15 million, has enjoyed a standout season for the Clarets. His impressive performances have not gone unnoticed, attracting significant interest from top Premier League clubs, with Newcastle United reportedly leading the race.
Negotiations between Newcastle and Burnley over Trafford's transfer have, however, hit a stumbling block in recent weeks. Burnley are understood to be holding out for a fee of £30 million for their prized asset, while Newcastle have, thus far, only been willing to offer £25 million. This valuation gap is currently preventing the move from progressing.
Once the transfer is completed, it will free up Nick Pope to consider his options. Earlier reports indicated that the 33yo shot-stopper wanted to fight for his place. It remains to be seen if Leeds can tempt the former England No1 to Elland Road this summer.