Leeds are actively searching for defensive reinforcements in response to recent injuries and squad changes.
Joe Rodon is still out of action after picking up an ankle injury during the 1-1 draw at Sunderland, while Sebastiaan Bornauw is looking to move on in search of more playing time, hoping to secure his place in Belgium’s World Cup squad.
The club have been linked with several players, including Danilho Doekhi, and have reportedly held discussions with RB Leipzig regarding a possible move for El Chadaille Bitshiabu.
L’Equipe now reports that Manchester United are also considering a move for Bitshiabu, setting up a potential battle between the two clubs.
Man United eye Leeds target El Chadaille Bitshiabu and may enter bidding war
Manchester United are moving forward with their recruitment plans, even after parting ways with Ruben Amorim following a 1-1 draw at Elland Road.
The French outlet report that the Red Devils are focusing on bolstering their central defensive options, which currently lack depth behind Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven and Lisandro Martinez.
This follows an update from TEAMtalk, who reported that Leeds have been in contact with RB Leipzig over a potential move for Bitshiabu. The French defender is looking to find more consistent playing time, having made just one Bundesliga start this season.
At Elland Road, the 20-year-old would likely begin as a backup option behind Pascal Struijk, Jaka Bijol, Rodon and Bornauw.
If Manchester United can offer him more regular minutes than Leeds could likely promise him – they’d surely be an attractive option to the youngster in comparison to others chasing his signature.
L’Equipe also note that Bayer Leverkusen, Monaco and Lyon are all monitoring Bitshiabu’s situation. If Leeds are serious about bringing him in, they may need to act quickly before other clubs step up their interest.
Why Danilho Doekhi looks the better fit for Leeds United
Even before this, we thought Danilho Doekhi was a better fit for Leeds than Bitshiabu.
The Dutch defender has been a regular for Union Berlin, while Bitshiabu hasn’t seen much game time. Doekhi’s made 18 appearances this season and has scored six goals from the back, which clearly turned Leeds’ head.
He’s also familiar with Brenden Aaronson and Pascal Struijk, which could help him settle quickly in Yorkshire.
Financially speaking, too, the Union Berlin No.5 is out of contract soon and therefore available for a cut-price fee this month, with nobody else currently providing competition to Leeds for his signature. A sum of £11.3m has been mentioned.
With so many clubs interested in Bitshiabu and the likelihood of a bidding war driving up his price well beyond £11m, focusing on Doekhi seems even more logical now.
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