Here are the Leeds United morning headlines for Saturday, August 15.
Bielsa close to agreeing new deal
Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa is close to agreeing a new contract, according to Sky Sports.
The Argentine led the Whites back to the Premier League for the first time in 16 years after guiding the club to top spot in the Championship.
And while he was keen to enjoy Leeds’ promotion, talks over his future have resumed, with an agreement said to be close.
Leeds have been busy in the summer transfer market, completing permanent moves for loanees Illan Meslier and Helder Costa as well as bringing in teenage trio Charlie Allen, Joe Gelhardt and Cody Drameh.
Leeds ‘step up’ Boetius chase
Leeds have stepped up their pursuit of Mainz midfielder Jean-Paul Boetius, according to Bild.
The club are expected to face competition for the 26-year-old Dutchman from Fiorentina, Sevilla and fellow Premier League newcomers Fulham.
Boetius has impressed since joining Mainz from Feyenoord in 2018, scoring eight times in 60 appearances.
A dynamic and versatile midfielder, Boetius also helped Basel to the Swiss title in 2016. His solitary Netherlands cap came in March 2014.
Bielsa’s previous interest in Upamecano
Bielsa’s eye for talent has been evidenced yet again after being credited with an interest in highly-rated RB Leipzig defender Dayot Upamecano during his time in charge of Marseille.
A keen-eyed Reddit user noticed a tweet from June 2015 outlining the coach’s interest in a then 17-year-old Upamecano, who was with Valencienne at the time.
Upamecano has since proceeded to become one of the hottest defensive properties on the European market, attracting interest from Manchester United and Arsenal.
There is no suggestion that Bielsa will revive his interest in the Frenchman as Leeds are prioritising a move for Brighton & Hove Albion centre-back Ben White, who impressed while on loan at Elland Road last season.
