Leeds United are working hard in the transfer window again and now they’re in advanced talks to sign Italian defender Mattia Zanotti from FC Lugano.
The 22-year-old right-back could be the latest name added to Daniel Farke’s squad as the club prepares for a strong return to the Premier League.
Full-Back Problems at Elland Road
Leeds already made some moves to strengthen their defence. Gabrie Gudmundsson joined earlier as a left-back replacement after Junior Firpo left on a free transfer.
They also brought in Jayden Bogle for the right-back role and gave Sam Byram a one-year contract extension.
But there’s still a big issue.
Isaac Schmidt, who didn’t get much game time last season, wants to leave the club.
He’s agreed to join Werder Bremen on loan, but boss Farke won’t let him go until Leeds bring in another full-back who can cover both left and right sides.
That’s why Leeds are pushing for Zanotti.
Who is Mattia Zanotti?
Zanotti came through the famous Inter Milan academy and now plays for FC Lugano in Switzerland.
He has also been playing for Italy’s Under-21 team and is seen as a young talent with big potential.
Reports say Leeds are very close to agreeing a deal worth around £8.7 million to bring him to Elland Road.
The talks between the two clubs are said to be “advanced,” and Zanotti is open to joining the Premier League.
If the move goes through, Zanotti will be the back-up for Bogle at right-back, while Byram will likely back up Gudmundsson on the left.
Other Options Considered
Leeds have also looked at other names this summer.
One of them was Ainsley Maitland-Niles, the former Arsenal player who’s now at Lyon.
But Farke and his team seem to prefer the younger and more dynamic Zanotti.
Leeds fans are excited about this possible transfer, especially as the team needs depth before the new season starts.
Zanotti’s arrival could give Leeds more strength in defence and allow Schmidt to leave without weakening the squad.
The deal could happen very soon and Leeds might not be done in the transfer market just yet.
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