Leeds United have already lost one key player in Pascal Struijk from their defence this summer, and there is talk about one more player’s future at Elland Road.
Daniel Farke agreed to Struijk’s sale to Brighton once it became clear that the Dutchman was not going to sign a new contract, and selling him was the only option.
Leeds have been left disappointed by the initial £15m fee they received from Brighton for the centre-back. However, they had to sell him before the end of June to safeguard their PSR position.
The Whites are now facing the real threat of losing Gabriel Gudmundsson, and the club expect offers for the left-back this summer. However, one of his more high-profile suitors have turned to another target.
Chelsea are now in talks to sign Raya Vallecano left-back Pep Chavarria
The Blues sold Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid this summer, and Xabi Alonso wants to sign a left-back who can also play in a more attacking wing-back role.
Chelsea are interested in Leeds defender Gabriel Gudmundsson and are considering testing the Whites’ resolve to hold on to the left-back this summer.
However, he is one of the several players on their watchlist, and they seem to have turned their attention towards getting a deal done for Rayo Vallecano’s Pep Chavarria.
The 28-year-old is keen on the move, and negotiations have been ongoing between Chelsea and Rayo Vallecano over a deal.
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that a fresh round of talks has been scheduled as Chelsea push to secure his signature this summer.
If the Blues sign the Spaniard this summer, they are unlikely to make a move for Gudmundsson in the ongoing transfer window.
This will be a huge boost for Leeds
Gabriel Gudmundsson had a solid World Cup despite France eliminating Sweden in the round of 32, and his performances turned heads.
Several clubs have their eyes on the left-back, but Chelsea’s interest in him is likely to be Leeds’ biggest concern due to their financial power and appeal.
If Chelsea drop out of the race for the Swede, Leeds are likely to find it easier to convince him to stay at Elland Road rather than pursue a transfer.
Gudmundsson emerged as one of the signings of the summer last season, and Daniel Farke cannot afford to lose him after just one year.
With Chelsea pushing for Chavarria, Leeds’ chances of holding on to Gudmundsson have definitely improved.
