Leeds United have reportedly identified an Argentina international as a potential summer transfer target.
On Saturday afternoon, the Yorkshire giants sealed the Championship title, reaching the 100-point mark in the process as they returned to the Premier League in style.
With speculation regarding the future of Daniel Farke having now been officially ended by club officials, the head coach and recruitment team can set about their business in the transfer market.
As it stands, it is unclear what level of budget that Farke will have at his disposal, but the German and Leeds in general may look to learn from previous efforts prior to top-flight seasons to give themselves the best chance of survival.
According to The Sun, that may include an ambitious approach for a player who could be playing Champions League football if he remains at his current club.
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Leeds planning Balerdi bid?
The report claims that Leeds have sent scouts to assess the capabilities of Marseille defender Leonardo Balerdi.
In his four seasons at the Stade Velodrome, the 26-year-old has made a total of 162 appearances with a key role having been played during 2024-25.
Balerdi has made 25 starts in Ligue 1, helping Marseille head into the final two matches of the campaign sitting in second place in the standings.
With just a two-point advantage over sixth place, however, earning Champions League football for next season is far from a guarantee.
Four of his six appearances for Argentina have come since October, highlighting the progression that he has made under Roberto De Zerbi.
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Do Leeds have a realistic chance?
If it becomes clear that Marseille are entertaining offers for Balerdi, they would realistically be inundated with offers, particularly at an alleged valuation of £20m.
That would likely render Leeds as outsiders to secure his signature, yet much may depend on the promises of regular football.
Should Marseille feature in next season's Champions League, Balerdi would realistically not consider any club not featuring in that competition having only made 10 appearances during his career.
Marseille are protected by a contract that runs until 2028.
Darren Plant
