Atalanta ‘end pursuit’ as Leeds and Everton battle for Farke’s £25m target | OneFootball

Leeds United are standing firm in the chase for Parma midfielder Mandela Keita, with Everton posing a serious threat to Daniel Farke’s plans.

Parma Live reports that Atalanta were initially best placed, with manager Maurizio Sarri targeting the 24-year-old, before abruptly changing course. The Serie A club have ended their pursuit to focus resources on Cagliari’s Gianluca Gaetano, turning the race into an all-English contest.

With the Italian option receding, Leeds are keeping pace with top-flight rivals, but Everton remain the chief obstacle.

The Toffees have made aggressive overtures to Parma, seeing Keita as the ideal successor to Idrissa Gueye, whose contract has expired.

Parma hold the Belgium international on a deal through 2029 and have imposed a non-negotiable £25million price. Another European suitor could still enter, so Leeds may need to act swiftly if they want the midfielder.

Source: Leedsunited.news