Leeds United are expected to be in the market for a new winger this summer, with Crysencio Summerville and Willy Gnonto among those who could leave, and one target may be on the move.
The Whites are anticipated to cash in on Summerville and Gnonto this summer, as Leeds must move a few important players to balance the Elland Road books and comply with Profit & Sustainability regulations.
Summerville has the attention of half of the Premier League, with Brighton rumored to have begun negotiations regarding a potential trade. Meanwhile, Gnonto is the subject of a £16.9 million bid from top level Nottingham Forest.
Jaidon Anthony has already returned to Bournemouth after a loan spell, and Ian Poveda’s Leeds contract will expire on Sunday. It leaves Dan James as the only natural option out wide in the Leeds squad right now.
Club president says that he may sell Leeds United target.
Jhon Arias of Colombia is one player Leeds are looking at to cover the probable vacuum left by Summerville, Gnonto, and Anthony. The Fluminense winger started for Colombia in their first Copa America game.
Leeds were connected with the South American earlier this summer, and it appears that a transfer to England is gaining traction. Leeds are certainly in the running to recruit the dynamic winger this summer.
According to Noticias Caracol, Fluminense president Mario Bittencourt states that Arias may depart in the next months if he wishes it, and that this will be determined by the level of interest in the Colombian.
“We’re in a scenario where they can either leave or not. So I need to decide whether I’m searching for a player who can depart or not. This is envisioning a possible escape. We are constantly looking at the market.
Leeds table Jhon Arias bid, but West Ham lead the race.
According to reports, Leeds have made an offer of £12.7 million to recruit the Fluminense star. Leicester, Crystal Palace, and Rangers are also rumored to be interested, but West Ham are reported to be the front runners.
Given Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus’ form last season, it’s unclear whether Arias will start for the Hammers. At Leicester, he would have greater opportunities to start on a regular basis.
He might get that opportunity at Palace as well, but only if Eberechi Eze or Michael Olise depart Selhurst Park first. Elland Road is likely to be the only site where his job is secure, but he is pricey.
