Swedish Under-21 right-back Linus Walhqvist has been linked with Leeds United for months but now it appears Reading’s Chris Gunter is on their radar.
After months of speculation, it appears that Linus Wahlqvist is still no closer to posing with a Leeds United shirt in front of a legion of photographers at Elland Road.
The Swedish right-back has been linked with a move to West Yorkshire since as far back as November by Voetbal Belgie and, since then, speculation has only mounted that the 20-year-old would be on his way to England.
Linus Wahlqvist has five full caps for Sweden
Yet, it appears that Wahlqvist, who didn’t make the best impression on English audiences by missing a penalty against Aidy Boothroyd’s Young Lions at the European Under-21 Championships this summer, is now on the backburner.
Because Gazette Live claim that Leeds have now turned their attention towards experienced Reading right-back Chris Gunter. The long-serving Royal, who has 79 caps for Wales despite being just 27 years of age, is understood to have a £1 million release clause in his contract.
New target
One of the most consistent players in the Championship, Gunter did not miss a single one of Reading’s 46 league games as they eventually lost out to Huddersfield Town in the play-off final at Wembley last season.
His performances appear to have piqued the interest of Leeds, as well as Garry Monk’s Middlesbrough.
Chris Gunter helped Wales reach the semi-finals of Euro 2016
Yet, Leeds making their interest in Gunter known suggests that a deal to bring Wahlqvist to England is no nearer completion. The youngster may have plenty of potential but Leeds would know exactly what they’re getting with Gunter.
At just £1 million, it’s a bargain impossible to ignore.
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