Leeds United are currently in a competitive race with Championship contenders Watford to secure the signing of AC Milan’s left-back, Fode Ballo-Toure. This pursuit was reported by the French outlet Foot Mercato. Ballo-Toure, who has found himself out of favor at AC Milan, is expected to leave the club this summer.
The 27-year-old defender, who is under contract with AC Milan until next summer, spent the previous season on loan at Fulham. However, his time in the Premier League was not particularly impactful, as he only made eight appearances for the club. He struggled to displace the first-choice left-back, Antonee Robinson, at Craven Cottage.
Ballo-Toure is reportedly attracting interest from several clubs. Turkish club Besiktas is said to have reached a transfer agreement with AC Milan, although Ballo-Toure is reportedly hesitant about moving to the Super Lig and is still considering his options. Additionally, Spanish clubs Celta Vigo and Sevilla have shown interest in acquiring his services. Meanwhile, Leeds United and Watford are closely monitoring his situation.
Ballo-Toure joined AC Milan in 2021 after leaving Monaco. Since then, he has made just 26 appearances for the Rossoneri, highlighting his limited playing time at the club.
Leeds United are particularly keen on strengthening their left-back position before the transfer window closes at the end of August. Manager Daniel Farke currently has only Junior Firpo and Sam Byram as options in that role. Firpo, however, has been heavily linked with a move to Real Betis in La Liga, potentially leaving Leeds with even fewer options.
As the new season approaches, with their Championship opener against Portsmouth just over three weeks away, Leeds United have so far added only three new players to their squad: Joe Rodon, Alex Cairns, and Joe Rothwell. This limited recruitment underscores the urgency for Leeds to bolster their squad, especially in the left-back position, to be competitive in the upcoming season.
