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Journalist says Leeds’ interest in 23-year-old is ‘genuine’, but 7-goal ace isn’t a top target

Photo by Gaston Szerman/DeFodi Images via Getty Images
Photo by Gaston Szerman/DeFodi Images via Getty Images
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Speaking on his podcast, The Athletic’s Phil Hay has been discussing Leeds United’s transfer plans and how they want to replace Raphinha.

Unfortunately for Leeds, the Brazilian winger looks set to leave Elland Road this summer, but luckily, the Whites have a plan in place to replace the winger.

According to Hay, Leeds have a genuine interest in Cody Gakpo, while they’re also keen on Charles De Ketelaere, but, despite longstanding interest, Hay says that Noa Lang is no longer the Whites’ top transfer target after netting seven league goals last season.

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What’s been said?

Hay shared what he knows about Leeds’ transfer plans.

“Yes, the interest in those wingers is genuine, but it will be dictated by Raphinha going. They’re not going to go and sign Gakpo or De Ketelaere unless Raphinha leaves, that’s my reading of this situation. Lang, they have been very keen on Lang, but from what I can gather there are other players they’d rather have If there was money to spend,” Hay said.

Ready to act

Hay says that Leeds have a genuine interest in Gakpo and De Ketelaere, and it looks as though Leeds are very much ready to act as and when Raphinha leaves.

The Brazilian is one of the Whites’ best players, but it’s fair to say that either Gakpo or De Ketelaere would be more than adequate replacements.

Gakpo is one of the Eredivisie’s top stars. He won the league’s Player of the Year award this term, while De Ketelaere’s 14 goals in Belgium make him one of the most promising players outside of Europe’s top five leagues.

Leeds may lose Raphinha, but it may not be long before the next gem emerges at Elland Road.

Feyenoord v PSV Eindhoven - Dutch Eredivisie
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