Report: Leeds could make £18m signing in days as club identifies replacements

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Leeds United could complete the £18 million signing of Diego Llorente within days as Real Sociedad have identified two potential replacements for their Premier League-bound centre-back, according to Marca.

Barely a window has gone by in recent years without reports linking this one-time Real Madrid youngster with a move to England.

But, with Leeds emerging like a bolt from the blue, Marcelo Bielsa’s newly promoted side are on the verge of signing one of Spanish football’s most impressive defenders while somehow avoiding the ceaseless speculation that usually follows Llorente.

It’s no secret Leeds have been looking to add some defensive depth to their ranks.

And, after conceding seven times in their opening Premier League fixtures against Liverpool and Fulham, the Yorkshire giants appear to have pulled off another eye-catching transfer coup.

Llorente is expected to join his Spain international team-mate Rodrigo Moreno at Elland Road. And Marca believes an £18 million deal could be signed before the weekend’s clash with Sheffield United.

What’s more, an exciting, free-flowing Sociedad side, which is looking to force its way into the Champions League places, has already identified a pair of replacements.

Atletico Madrid’s Mario Hermoso and Leandro Cabrera, recently relegated with Espanyol, are loan targets.

Llorente, as you might imagine, ticks a lot of boxes for Bielsa – the enigmatic head coach who dictates so much of Leeds’ transfer strategy.

The 27-year-old is not only technically gifted and comfortable in possession, he can also play further forward in defensive midfield – like fellow new recruit Robin Koch.