Leeds United have tabled a £16.5million bid for RC Lens centre-back Abdukodir Khusanov, according to TOPMercato.
The news outlet reports (27 December) that the Ligue 1 outfit are willing to part ways with the Uzbekistan international in the upcoming transfer window to balance their books.
Ahead of January, the Whites have made the first move to acquire the 20-year-old, but their first offer won’t be enough for the French side, who are looking to get up to £25m for their defender.
It’s also “difficult” to imagine Khusanov prioritising the Peacocks, with super agent Jorge Mendes sounding out the likes of Manchester City, Tottenham and Paris Saint-Germain.
Leeds United need Abdukodir Khusanov transfer in January
The Whites evidently need reinforcements in the upcoming transfer window, considering their lack of squad depth in various positions.
Daniel Farke has had to deal with several injuries at the West Yorkshire club this season, but the German manager has managed the situation well.
The Peacocks jumped to the top of the Championship after their 2-0 win over Stoke at the bet365 Stadium on Boxing Day.
Leeds are the favourites of many to win the title in the current campaign, but without their injury issues, they could be in a much more comfortable position.
Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk have been Farke’s preferred centre-back pairing in recent months, but the 48-year-old head coach has lacked backup options.
Ethan Ampadu, who has just returned from injury, was deployed in defence against Oxford United to give Struijk some much-needed recovery time.
Max Wober has been on the sidelines a lot as well, while James Debayo is still too young, it seems.
Khusanov could boost the Whites’ hopes for promotion, but whether the 49ers will sanction a move for the Uzbek remains to be seen.
