90Min claim Leeds have joined the race to sign Bayern Munich talent Chris Richards – but could face competition from Crystal Palace and Southampton. The report also says Graham Potter’s Brighton is interested in Richards.
The 22-year-old centre-back has just returned to Bayern after a 18-month loan spell with Bundesliga side Hoffenheim. He clocked up 34 appearances during the loan, missing 11 league games last season due to injuries.
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The USA international returns to Bayern with three years left on his contract but with the World Cup around the corner, he knows he needs to be playing regular football. Another loan could be on the cards this summer.
That is, unless clubs are willing to pay his £13million price tag – with previous reports saying Palace and Southampton are keen. The new report also carries interest from Southampton, as well as Leeds and Brighton.
Leeds have joined race to sign Bayern talent Richards
Do Leeds need a centre-back? That is the main question. Diego Llorente, Liam Cooper, Robin Koch and Pascal Struijk are the main options – while Luke Ayling can also fill in. Charlie Cresswell is expected to go out on loan.
However, the American connection – which includes a large ownership stake from the San Francisco 49ers, manager Jesse Marsch and new signing Brenden Aaronson – could tempt Leeds to look at Richards.
The Whites are also being linked with other American stars, most notably Tyler Adams. Richards is a highly-rated talent but whether the Yorkshire outfit actually need him is another question.
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