Leeds United make contact over potential deal for Southampton star

Leeds United are among the clubs eyeing a deal for departing Southampton full-back Kyle Walker-Peters, according to Graeme Bailey.

Leeds United are in for a busy summer transfer window as they prepare for Premier League football. LUFC will be looking to strengthen Daniel Farke’s squad to increase their chances of success in the top flight.

The Whites boast a fine squad but there will be reservations over their depth and the starting XI players who are capable of stepping up to the Premier League.

As such, a whole host of players have already been linked with moves to Elland Road. Now, a fresh name has emerged on the radar.

According to reporter Graeme Bailey, LUFC are among the numerous clubs to have explored a possible move for Kyle Walker-Peters ahead of the expiry of his Southampton contract.

The 28-year-old full-back is set to leave the Saints after their relegation and speaking to Leeds United News, reporter Bailey says that the Whites have made contact. He said:

“Leeds have had contact, but as we know they’re one of many clubs to be in touch with him. West Ham, Spurs, Everton… there’s loads. And some foreign clubs are lurking too. 

“Can Leeds get him? Of course. But from what I can make out it’s going to be tough.”

A Premier League proven player

Leeds United will be out to sign proven Premier League players wherever they can and deals for out of contract stars such as Walker-Peters will be the perfect way to do just that.

Able to play on the left or right as a full-back or wing-back, the 28-year-old has made nearly 150 top flight appearances for Southampton and former club Spurs, chipping in with two goals and 12 assists in the process.

A two-time England international, Walker-Peters has already proven himself as a player above Championship level, so it isn’t a surprise to see that a move elsewhere awaits with the Saints dropping back to the second tier.

Is a Leeds United swoop beneficial for all?

Leeds United come into this summer window needing a new starting left-back and backup at right-back. Junior Firpo looks poised to depart, while Jayden Bogle could do with stronger competition on the right.

Walker-Peters is a right-sided player but has proven himself as an ample option on the left too. It feels unlikely that the Whites will entertain dropping Bogle given how good he has been, though Walker-Peters is arguably a better player.

Playing him on the left is an option, but LUFC may favour a natural left-footer. Walker-Peters may prefer to play on his go-to side too.

As for the player’s stance, after regularly battling relegation with Southampton, he may prefer a move to someone likely to be further up their division. There are ways for this move to work, but it feels as though Walker-Peters will have more appealing and better suited options open to him.

Club’s move for Southampton player dismissed – Swoop for West Ham forward likelier

According to a claim in the Turkish media, Besiktas are unlikely to move for Southampton forward Paul Onuachu this summer.

The Nigeria international has been linked with a return to the Super Lig and along with Besiktas, his former club Trabzonspor are also said to be interested.

However, Cagdas Sevinc has told Futbol Arena that Besiktas’ interest in the Southampton attacker isn’t serious and that they will look to sign a centre forward with different attributes.

The Turkish journalist went on to say West Ham United’s Niclas Füllkrug, who has also recently been linked with the Istanbul side, would be a better fit.

“I don’t think Onuachu is a very serious target for Besiktas. I don’t think he’s a name to be preferred in the cost/benefit balance. I’m not sure if he fits the profile. The names Weghorst and Füllkrug could be more prominent. Neither of them has a top level of goal-scoring, but they fit the definition of a central striker,” said Sevinc.

In recent weeks both Onuachu and Füllkrug have been linked with Besiktas as Ole Gunnar Solskjær looks to bring in a No.9. It’s expected Ciro Immobile with leave the Black Eagles in the summer and the Norwegian coach will need to replace the Italian.

Onuachu has made 27 appearances for Southampton this season, scoring four goals. He’s contracted to the English club until June 2026.

Füllkrug endured a disappointing debut season with West Ham, which was blighted by injury. The German has made just 16 appearances for the Hammers, scoring three goals