Leeds United are in the market for a centre-back after they decided to cash in on Pascal Struijk, who has completed a move to Brighton this summer.
Once Struijk decided against signing a new contract, Leeds decided to sell him, and the move was completed before the end of June to boost their financial situation ahead of the new financial year.
With the Dutchman gone, Leeds are now in the market for an experienced defender who can slot straight into the team to take up Struijk’s position.
Leeds have been linked with a move for Wolves defender Ladislav Krejci, but the club have other targets, and the asking price of one of their other targets has been revealed.
Juventus set asking price for Lloyd Kelly
Lloyd Kelly joined Juventus on loan in the winter transfer window of last year, and the move was made permanent in the last summer transfer window.
He was a key part of the Juventus squad last season, making 35 Serie A appearances. However, his future in Turin has come under the scanner this summer.
Leeds are among the Premier League clubs who are considering taking the former Bournemouth and Newcastle star back to the Premier League.
According to Tutto Juve, Aston Villa and Everton are also interested, and Juventus are prepared to sell at a certain price point.
The Serie A giants have set an asking price of £30m for a defender they signed for around £15m last year. They are hoping to turn a huge profit from the sale.
However, Juventus are likely to sell Kelly if a club offer them somewhere around £26m in the ongoing summer transfer window.
It would still mean a significant profit for the club, who are keen to reinvest in other areas of their squad.
Leeds need to decide on a Struijk replacement soon
Bringing in a replacement for Pascal Struijk remains one of Leeds United’s top priorities this summer, with the club keen to reduce the risk that comes with signing a new centre-back.
Wolves defender Ladislav Krejci is their preferred target, but a deal will not come cheaply. Wolves are holding firm on their valuation, meaning Leeds could have to pay a club-record fee to get him.
The Whites are also believed to be preparing an offer for Real Betis centre-back Natan. While highly rated, the Brazilian has no Premier League experience and would also command a significant transfer fee.
Lloyd Kelly has therefore emerged as an attractive alternative. His experience in English football is a major plus, making him a player Leeds are seriously considering.
That said, Leeds are unlikely to overpay for the 27-year-old. Any move is expected to depend on Juventus lowering their demands to a figure the Whites consider good value.
