Leeds United have now set their sights on Ligue 1 in a move to strengthen Marcelo Bielsa’s midfield with the capture of Newcastle United transfer target Seko Fofana from RC Lens.
That’s according to Foot Mercato, who report the Premier League relegation rivals are also battling to buy the Ivorian. The Whites sit just eight-points clear of the drop zone after 19 games. While the Magpies sit 19th, having played more fixtures than Watford and Burnley.
Newcastle have already struck deals for Kieran Trippier and Chris Wood to help Eddie Howe climb the standings. But the Toon remain active in the market, as the former Bournemouth boss is eager to also improve his core. While Leeds are yet to secure any mid-season deals.
Fofana has now hit Newcastle and Leeds’ transfer shortlists after shining in Ligue 1 for Lens so far this season. Yet his displays at the Estadio Bollaert-Delelis have also piqued Burnley’s attention. The Clarets are even considered ahead of the Whites and Magpies in any race.
Lens are yet to receive any bids from the growing list of suitors considering signing the 26-year-old. But any side wishing to sign the midfielder must pay far more than €17m (£14m).
The Daily Mail claimed this week Lens wanted £14m while citing Burnley’s interest in Leeds and Newcastle transfer target Fofana. Foot Mercato, meanwhile, first cited the Toon’s back in November alongside interest from Marseille, AC Milan and Atalanta.
Newcastle or Leeds can sign ‘quality’ midfielder in Lens star Fofana
Fofana has built a European-wide market that Newcastle, Leeds and Burnley may have to battle for a transfer with a string of strong showings for Lens in Ligue 1 so far this season.
The Paris-born dynamo has offered five goals in 20 games as Les Sang et Or’s captain. He also scored both goals in their Coupe de France 2-2 tie with Lille, plus their winning penalty.
So, Lens will show resistance to any swoop Leeds, Newcastle or Burnley make for Fofana’s transfer. Boss Franck Haise will also be particularly keen not to lose his engine room star.
“We need strong, quality players and that’s exactly what he is,” Haise said, via Ligue1.com.
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