Fiorentina lurking as Zenit snub leaves door open for Leeds target

Fiorentina are reportedly prepared to step up the chase for major Leeds United midfield target Rodrigo de Paul.

The Udinese star has been strongly linked with a switch to Elland Road over recent weeks.

Leeds put in a barnstorming display as they lost 4-3 at champions Liverpool on their Premier League return.

But Bielsa is clearly looking at more additions to his side and De Paul remains a major option.

Reports on Sunday claimed that Zenit St. Petersburgh had entered the frame for the 26-year-old.

However, La Nazione (via Football Italia) claims that De Paul has rejected that move and that the Viola are ready to compete for his signature.

Napoli are also mentioned as potential suitors, while the player’s decision not to move to Russia could also open the door for Leeds again.

De Paul, who joined from Valencia in 2016, is said to have already decided against a move to England, however.

Udinese have set an asking price of €40m for the attacking midfielder, who has contributed 25 goals and 25 assists during his time at the Dacia Arena.

But that figure may put off other Italian clubs and still leave Leeds with an outside chance of doing a deal.

That would, however, require a major change of heart from De Paul, who favours remaining in Serie A.

LEEDS PUSHING FOR CHELSEA STAR

Meanwhile, Leeds are aiming to secure a permanent deal for a Chelsea star rated highly by Frank Lampard.

The club’s pursuit of Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul recently suffering a double blow. As such, attentions could now turn to other avenues.

The Daily Mail report that one such alternative could be Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher.

The 20-year-old has represented England an under-21 level, and has gained experience on loan spells with Charlton Athletic and Swansea City.

The midfielder is described as being ‘highly’ rated by Lampard. And the Chelsea boss would prefer to let Gallagher gain further experience via another loan stint.

However, the article describes Bielsa and Leeds as having ‘such faith Gallagher will fit into Marcelo Bielsa’s style that they are willing to buy him.’ Read more…