Leeds United has spent most of this transfer window protecting their players from various suitors.
Despite their efforts, the club has lost several players to bigger teams but has also made profits in the process.
One of the main areas affected is midfield. Both Glen Kamara and Archie Gray have left Elland Road, leaving a significant gap.
The duo played crucial roles last season as the club tried to gain promotion to the Premier League.
Although the promotion bid ultimately failed, the departures have left a substantial void in the squad.
Glen Kamara, who spent just one season at Elland Road, made 42 appearances for the club. The Finland international had firmly established himself in the midfield.
Archie Gray’s departure is another significant loss. The young talent made 52 appearances for the club in a single season and was seen as the future of Leeds, being an academy graduate.
However, Gray will now be playing in the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur.
Leeds has been actively searching for replacements. Dejan Ljubičić, Bobby Clark, and Jordan James were key targets, but there have been no recent updates on these players.
Transfer Market Heats Up as Leeds United Joins the Race for Mandela Keita
According to Gazet van Antwerpen, Leeds United has identified a new midfield target amidst other rumors.
The Whites are eyeing Royal Antwerp and Belgian national team midfielder Mandela Keita.
The 22-year-old is also being monitored by Manchester United, Leicester City, Nottingham Forest, Blackburn Rovers, and Norwich City.
It’s a highly competitive race, but the relatively small transfer fee might increase Leeds’ chances of securing the midfielder.
Keita is priced at around £8 million, which is a feasible amount for Leeds to pay considering their player sales this summer.
The club is yet to make an official approach, but as the transfer deadline draws close, the Whites are expected to make their move in the coming weeks.
Mandela Keita is a defensive midfielder who made 39 appearances for Antwerp last season, contributing three assists. He is known more for his defensive capabilities.
He can break up opposition attacks and play as a lone midfielder or a No. 6, which could provide Leeds with stability in the middle of the park.
Overall, Keita could be a valuable addition to Leeds’ squad, offering a dynamic option in midfield.
