Leeds close on James Trafford, Delap not pursued, Brandt offer still stands | OneFootball

Leeds United are closing in on a £40m deal for Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford, a move that would break the club’s transfer record, although it is not yet complete. Club sources are positive about getting it done. Trafford is currently on a FIFA-mandated post-World Cup break, due to end after 8 August.

According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, Leeds set a precedent this summer when £34m signing Tarik Muharemovic interrupted his holiday to complete a medical in West Yorkshire before returning to his break.

A goalkeeper has been a priority and, once signed, Leeds are expected to add another for back-up, plus a new centre forward and further left-back cover. Spanish striker Carlos Espi, 21, scored 13 in 27 for Levante last season and is admired, but no move has been made. Recruitment up front is expected to focus on younger profiles to compete with Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and club sources say Chelsea’s Liam Delap is not being pursued.

Leeds still have two offers on the table. They told Southampton last week that their bid for midfielder Shea Charles was best and final, and there has been no indication it has been accepted. The Northern Ireland international was among several players not used in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Paderborn.

An offer to free agent Julian Brandt also remains. The German number 10’s father, Jurgen Brandt, has visited Thorp Arch for talks and the Brandts are continuing to assess options.

On outgoings, Valencia’s initial valuation of Largie Ramazani is far from Leeds’ figure. Even so, a return to Mestalla for the winger, after last season’s loan, remains possible if common ground is found.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk