According to The Athletic, Leeds United have made an approach for Werder Bremen midfielder Ilia Gruev.
Earlier today, ITV sports correspondent Chris Dawkes mentioned that Leeds were in talks with the Bulgarian midflielder. The Athletic confirmed the report, stating that Leeds have sounded out Werder Bremen ahead of a potential deal.
Heard from a reliable source that #lufc are in for Werder Bremen’s Bulgarian international midfielder Ilia Gruev
— Chris Dawkes (@chrisdawkesITV) August 30, 2023
A move for Leverkusen midfielder Nadiem Amiri fell through after the player flew to England for discussions. This means Leeds have had a short window to search for new targets. According to The Athletic, the club are pursuing a move for Gruev and are also said to hold a serious interest in Celtic’s Matt O’Riley. The report adds that Daniel Farke also pushed for the signing of Norwich City midfielder Kenny McLean, but the canaries are reluctant to discuss any deal.
Leeds United have made an approach for midfielder Ilia Gruev at Werder Bremen. Highly-rated by Farke. Club focusing heavily on central midfielders now.
Kamara interest still there. Also strongly linked with Matt O'Riley at Celtic.
Story @TheAthleticFChttps://t.co/6ALH69kUWr
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) August 30, 2023
Gruev is a 23-year-old Bulgaria international who has been with Werder Bremen since 2019. He operates as a defensive midfielder, and could easily slot alongside Ethan Ampadu in midfield. It is believed that £4million would be enough to tempt Bremen into a deal.
Leeds exited the Carabao Cup after losing on penalties to League Two Salford and will now turn their attention to this weekend. The Whites are at home to Sheffield Wednesday, with the club and manager pushing to add new faces before the transfer deadline.
