Leeds United’s bid to sign an attacking midfielder from Italy has encountered a setback after Alessandro Nesta was appointed as the manager of a Serie A team on Wednesday.
The Whites are expected to be active in the transfer market this summer. The 49ers, Leeds’ ownership group, have acknowledged that some players will need to be sold to balance the finances and address a significant debt.
Players like Crysencio Summerville, Willy Gnonto, Illan Meslier, Archie Gray, and Ilia Gruev have attracted interest from top-tier clubs, making several transfers likely in the coming months.
To remain competitive and push for promotion next season, Leeds must sell high and buy low. This means they need to secure affordable signings, loans, or free transfers.
One target is Reggiana’s midfielder Natan Girma, valued at £3.5 million. The 6ft 2in playmaker has impressed in Italy’s second tier during the 2023-24 season, scoring six goals.
Leeds have also welcomed back Brenden Aaronson, who spent last season on loan at Union Berlin following Leeds’ relegation. His return lessens the urgency for a new No.10. However, Girma remains a target for Leeds, who have made inquiries and held talks about the playmaker over recent months. Yet, Leeds are not the only club interested in Girma.
Reports indicate Watford are keen, and Serie A side Monza is also in the race. Monza, who finished 12th last season, recently lost their manager Raffaele Palladino. Consequently, Leeds’ pursuit of Girma has been complicated because Monza has appointed Alessandro Nesta, taking him from Reggiana.
Nesta oversaw Girma’s best season in 2023-24, making Monza a likely destination for the midfielder. With Nesta now at Monza, Girma’s move there seems imminent.
Although Leeds have Aaronson back, adding a player like Girma, who can play deeper in midfield or out wide and has similarities to Georginio Rutter, would have strengthened the team significantly.
