Leeds Preparing Offer to Sign ‘Exceptional’ £20m Star

Leeds United have made Marseille defender Leonardo Balerdi one of their top transfer targets for the upcoming summer window, journalist Alan Nixon has claimed.

The Whites have reportedly identified the Argentinian centre-half as a potential reinforcement for Daniel Farke’s backline ahead of their Premier League return, and are believed to be preparing an offer for the experienced 26-year-old.

Nixon claims Leeds have travelled to France to take a closer look at Balerdi, who is said to be keen on a move to the Premier League after three years with Marseille.

A deal for the Argentina international could cost around £20m this summer, which would place him among the most expensive arrivals ever at Elland Road.

Leeds Want to Sign Leonardo Balerdi

Readying an offer for the 26-year-old defender

Balerdi, praised as ‘exceptional’, has been a key player for Marseille since joining from Borussia Dortmund permanently in 2021, making 162 appearances across all competitions and scoring five goals.

The six-cap Argentina international penned a contract extension last August until 2028 but could reportedly entertain a Premier League switch at the end of the season, with Leeds now determined to land him.

Having resolved Farke’s future at Elland Road, Leeds are now turning their attention to bolstering the German tactician’s squad ahead of their Premier League return.

According to reports, the Whites are also eyeing midfield reinforcements and have placed Sporting Lisbon midfielder Hidemasa Morita among their potential targets.

The Japan international is set to enter the final year of his contract in Portugal and could be available for just £7m after the season.

Leonardo Balerdi’s Marseille Stats (2024/25 Ligue 1)
Games	25
Goals	0
Assists	0
Goal-creating actions	2
Minutes played	2,093

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