Leeds United Keeping Tabs On 22-Year-Old For Free Transfer: What Does He Offer The Whites? | OneFootball

Leeds United are keeping a close watch on Marseille midfielder Bilal Nadir ahead of the 2026/27 season, with the 22-year-old preparing to become a free agent when his contract expires in June 2026. Africa Foot and Sport Witness both confirm that Daniel Farke’s side have thrown their hat into the ring, using the lure of the Premier League to attract the France-born Morocco Under-23 international.

Leeds United set their sights on free agent Bilal Nadir for a summer move

Nadir’s representatives are looking for a net salary of €1.2 million per year alongside a €2.5 million signing-on bonus, figures Leeds should comfortably meet. The player, valued at €9 million on Transfermarkt, is looking for consistent game time and a meaningful role rather than sitting on the sidelines.

Several structural changes at Marseille have sped up his departure, with manager Roberto De Zerbi, president Pablo Longoria, and sporting director Medhi Benatia all exiting the club. RC Strasbourg, Girona, and Villarreal are keeping tabs on him closely, creating a real fight for his signature. This season, Nadir has picked up one goal and five assists across 862 minutes in 28 appearances, though three separate injuries, including a hamstring problem since 19 April, have stunted his rhythm and forced him to miss seven matches.

What does Nadir actually offer Leeds United beyond the obvious free transfer appeal?

LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 26: Daniel Farke, Manager of Leeds United, applauds the fans after the Emirates FA Cup Semi Final match between Chelsea and Leeds United at Wembley Stadium on April 26, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Nadir brings real flair and directness from midfield, with his ability to link up tight passes and drive forward with the ball adding something Leeds United currently lack when moving from defence to attack. His five assists this season, despite significant injury absences, suggest a player who really makes an impact when fit.

However, Nadir’s injury record is a real concern; three separate setbacks in a single campaign raise serious questions about his fitness at the Premier League level and beyond. Leeds United need a player who can handle the demands in 2026/27, and reliability is a huge factor. Still, if medical checks satisfy the club’s staff, Nadir looks like a steal. Leeds United signing a technically gifted, young midfielder on a free transfer could prove to be a very clever bit of business this summer.