Leeds United are in advanced talks to sign Werder Bremen’s Ilia Gruev

As reported by The Athletic, Leeds United are in advanced talks to sign Werder Bremen midfielder Ilia Gruev.

With the Yorkshire-based club currently looking to bolster their midfield options, Gruev is being considered as a potential rotation option with Ethan Ampadu in defensive midfield. While the 23-year-old is valued at €4m by Leeds, Florian Plettenberg has reported that Bremen could receive up to €6m for the Bulgarian international. 

Due to the small time frame until the transfer window ends, Leeds will have to act quickly to secure their target, and with negotiations in the advanced stages, it looks like a move could be imminent. It is understood that personal terms will not be an issue after Gruev gave the green light for a move to be made.

Last season, Gruev featured 31 times for Bremen as he helped guide the side to Bundesliga survival in their maiden campaign back in Germany’s top flight. 

Leeds had been hopeful of recruiting another midfield target in the past week, however, Bayer Leverkusen’s Nadiem Amiri would turn down the chance to sign for the Championship club. While Gruev will not be considered as an alternative to Amiri, the 23-year-old will still add quality to Daniel Farke’s midfield. 

GGFN | Will Shopland