Leeds United are already drawing up plans for the January transfer window as Daniel Farke looks to address shortcomings that have become increasingly apparent in the opening months of the Premier League season.
The Whites are particularly keen to add more creativity and attacking quality, with the recruitment team exploring several options.
However, one potential target could prove especially difficult to prise away from his current club, given how important he has become to their ambitions under a familiar face.
Leeds target Coventry City star Jack Rudoni
According to TEAMtalk, Leeds United are keeping a close eye on Coventry City midfielder Jack Rudoni as they consider their options ahead of January.
Graeme Bailey reports that Leeds and Newcastle United are among several clubs monitoring the 25-year-old, who has become one of Frank Lampard’s most influential players since Coventry’s promotion to the Premier League.
Leeds have been tracking Rudoni for the past 12 months, with scouts continuing to follow his development since the Sky Blues returned to the top flight.
The midfielder has made an impressive start to life in the Premier League, scoring three goals and establishing himself as a key attacking outlet for Lampard.
His ability to arrive in dangerous areas, create opportunities and contribute goals makes him an attractive option for Farke, whose side have sometimes lacked imagination in the final third.
Lampard faces battle to keep Coventry’s best player
Leeds will not have a straightforward route to Rudoni, with Newcastle also long-term admirers of the midfielder.
TEAMtalk adds that Brighton, Brentford and Fulham are monitoring his situation, while Roma, Monaco, Stuttgart and Villarreal have also checked on his availability.
Rudoni’s contract situation could make the developing interest particularly interesting. He has around 18 months remaining on his current Coventry deal, potentially putting the club under pressure to secure his long-term future or consider offers.
Lampard will understandably be reluctant to lose a player who has become so important to his side, particularly with Coventry looking to establish themselves in the Premier League.
For Leeds, Rudoni is one of several attacking midfield options being considered, alongside Galatasaray’s Gabriel Sara and Lyon’s Pavel Sulc.
The interest is not yet a confirmed bid, but Leeds’ long-standing monitoring of Rudoni suggests this is not a name that has suddenly appeared on their recruitment shortlist.
Farke wants more creativity in his squad, and the Coventry midfielder could offer exactly that. Whether Leeds can convince Lampard to part with one of his most important players in January is another matter entirely.
