Leeds United remain in the market for new centre-backs following Pascal Struijk’s departure to Brighton earlier this summer.
The Whites reluctantly sanctioned the Dutchman’s sale once it became clear he would not sign a new contract. With the club also needing to improve their PSR position before the end of June, cashing in became the most sensible option.
Despite speculation that Daniel Farke could revert to a back four next season, strengthening the heart of the defence remains one of Leeds’ top priorities.
Replacing Struijk is at the top of the club’s wishlist, with Farke keen to have a new centre-back in place before the new campaign begins. However, Leeds are also planning to add another defender, with Sebastiaan Bornauw expected to leave Elland Road this summer.
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Leeds appear to have shifted their focus to strengthening the defence and are working on several deals for centre-backs this summer.
The Whites have already tabled a contract offer for Sassuolo defender Tarik Muharemovic and have also opened talks over a move for Udinese centre-back Oumar Solet.
However, Leeds are now stepping up their efforts to reach an agreement for a defender they have been monitoring for several months.
Nico Elvedi has been heavily linked with a move to Leeds, and the club are pushing to agree terms with the centre-back’s representatives.
The Swiss defender is open to a move to Elland Road this summer, and Gladbach sporting director Rouven Schroder has indicated the club are open to offers for the centre-back.
Schroder was quoted as saying by Bulinews: “Nico Elvedi played an outstanding World Cup.
“If offers come in, we will look at those offers and weigh up our options.”
Nico Elvedi would be a good signing for Leeds
At 29, Elvedi would bring plenty of experience and proven quality to Elland Road.
The Switzerland international stands at 6ft 2in and offers the ideal blend of physicality and composure. Last season, he completed 93 per cent of his passes while also registering 325 clearances across all competitions, underlining both his ability on the ball and his defensive reliability.
Although he is naturally right-footed and is not a direct replacement for Pascal Struijk, his versatility makes him an attractive option. Elvedi is comfortable operating across the back line, giving Daniel Farke valuable tactical flexibility.
Whether Leeds continue with a back three or switch to a back four, his mobility, reading of the game and confidence in possession suggest he would be well equipped to handle the demands of Premier League football.
