Leeds United want Azzedine Ounahi but Aston Villa appear to be a new rival in the race alongside Premier league rivals Aston Villa.
Leeds are chasing the signature of Ounahi as they look for another big signing after landing Georginio Rutter over the weekend.
90Min claim that Leeds have put £22million on the table for Angers midfielder Ounahi, which is just £4.5million away from the £26.5million asking price.
Leeds aren’t exactly the only club in the race for Ounahi though, with Serie A leaders Napoli very interested.
Napoli sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli has now been quoted by Il Napolista as saying that he is ‘optimistic’ of signing Ounahi despite Leeds making their move.
Giuntoli isn’t trying to focus too much on the transfer market but believes Ounahi is a ‘good’ player and it’s clear that Npoli hope to beat Leeds here.
Aston Villa now join Leeds United in Azzedine Ounahi race
As if fighting Napoli for Ounahi wasn’t bad enough, Leeds now face a battle with Premier League rivals Aston Villa.
Italian transfer reporter Ciro Venerato has been quoted by Tutto Napoli as saying that Angers president Said Chabane is actually talking to Villa more than Leeds.
Villa have been snubbed by Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie and a move for Marseille midfielder Matteo Guendouzi hasn’t yet materialised.
Villa may now instead turn their attention to Ounahi, with Venerato adding that Napoli are adamant they won’t offer more than €15million (£13.2million).
Angers surely won’t take that offer if Premier League clubs are offering much more and Villa now appear to be another suitor.
Ounahi was a relative unknown just two months ago but a sensational World Cup campaign has made him a wanted man.
Ounahi was a driving force in midfield as Morocco defied the odds and reached the World Cup semi-finals.
Hailed as ‘absolutely incredible’ by Jose Mourinho, Ounahi looks to have a huge future ahead of him at just 22.
Leeds and Villa are now fighting it out for Ounahi, no doubt believing that he can become a superstar in England.
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