Leeds United have now entered pole position to sign a “fantastic” Championship star who’s wanted all over Europe.
Leeds eyeing move for in-demand defender
After playing over 45 minutes with ten men, Leeds did well to take a point from the trip to Crystal Palace on Sunday, with the game finishing 0-0, and Daniel Farke was full of praise for his team’s attitude.
Farke said: “I would trust my lads with my life. We are not perfect, but the mentality in the dressing room is second to none. In the circumstances, in a difficult away game, we defended the whole time and we didn’t give any chances away. Fantastic spirit, defending, clean sheet, and a point away.
“I am just proud of how we defended. Even in the second half, there were even moments where we thought we could win the game.”
Indeed, the manager was left particularly impressed by his side’s performance from a defensive point of view, but they have struggled to keep things tight at the back at times this season, conceding more goals than any other Premier League team outside the relegation zone.
Consequently, it would make sense to strengthen the defence in the summer transfer window, and Leeds have now moved into pole position in the race to sign Manchester City centre-back Stephen Mfuni, who is currently out on loan at Championship side Watford.
That is according to reporter Alan Nixon (via MOT Leeds News), who states the Whites are leading the race for Mfuni’s signature, despite widespread interest from across Europe, with unnamed clubs from Germany and Spain also keen.
Championship sides could also be set to battle it out for the 18-year-old, but Manchester City believe he’s ready to play in the top flight, which means a deal may be contingent on Farke’s side avoiding the drop.
“Fantastic” Mfuni could be ready for Premier League move
The starlet has certainly caught the eye out on loan at Watford, with manager Ed Still saying: “He’s fantastic. He’s the third Manchester City defender I’ve had the chance to work with. We had Abdukodir Khusanov at Lens last season and then Juma Bah, who’s a CFG (City Football Group) player at Nice currently.
“In terms of potential, he (Mfuni) is right up there. That’s stating the obvious. Everybody who was at the Vic (Vicarage Road) on Tuesday saw again what a good player he already is and he’s only 18. To be honest, I think his ceiling is whatever he wants it to be, as simple as that.”
The teenager is a centre-back by trade, but he is also capable of playing at left-back, putting in a very impressive performance in a recent 1-1 draw against Sheffield Wednesday.
|
Stephen Mfuni’s key stats vs Sheffield Wednesday |
Number completed |
|
Duels (won) |
8 (8) |
|
Dribbles (successful) |
2 (2) |
|
Clearances |
6 |
|
Interceptions |
2 |
Mfuni is showing signs he could be ready to make the step-up to the Premier League, and it is exciting news that Leeds are leading the race for his signature.
Leeds have been fending off interest in the forward for years.