Credit: Imago, Manh Tung - Breaking Media

Oliver Walton

Mon 18 May 2026 11:41, UK

Follow us on Google Discover

Ilia Gruev should be concerned that Leeds United boss Daniel Farke is trying to replace him this summer as they accelerate a move for Lyon star Tanner Tessmann.

Gruev has already found himself slipping down the midfield pecking order at Leeds this season due to some outstanding form from a number of his teammates.

The Bulgarian international has started 15 top-flight matches since their promotion, and last featured in mid-April after suffering a season-ending meniscus injury in training.

He must be fearing the worst ahead of the summer window as the Whites line up a quick move for Lyon and USA midfielder Tessmann.

They have been linked to several other midfielders in recent months, with Gruev possibly set to be involved in Leeds’ transfer plans if some arrive at Elland Road before next season.

Ilian Gruev nearing exit as Leeds lead race to sign Tanner Tessmann

Transfer reporter Alan Nixon has claimed that Leeds are interested in signing Lyon midfielder Tessmann this summer.

His report states that the Whites’ American ownership is set to give them the edge in talks, with Brentford also interested in the USA international star.

Both clubs want to sign Tessmann before the World Cup starts next month, in case he shines and attracts more attention, while he is open to moving and will entertain all offers.

Tessmann is a defensive midfielder by trade, with several standout statistics compared to other players in his position across the 2025-26 Ligue 1 campaign.

He has been a regular for Lyon since joining from Venezia in 2024, helping them to qualify for the Champions League for the first time since 2019 this season.

The 24-year-old would surely represent an upgrade on Gruev, who looks to be the most likely Leeds midfielder to be sold this summer.

Which other midfielders are Leeds in the market for this summer?

Gruev likely wants to stay at Leeds for now, but should clearly be worried about the club looking to sell him as they eye an imminent transfer for Tessmann.

The Lyon star is not the only midfielder on their radar, as sources have revealed to Football Insider that Leeds are keen on Dynamo Dresden’s Kofi Amoako and Farke wants to use his German contacts to broker a deal.

Several outlets have also reported that Sporting CP star Hidemasa Morita and Charleroi’s Yacine Titraoui are both on their radar ahead of the upcoming window.

Farke is obviously planning to improve his depth in the middle of the park, with Gruev looking likely to make way for some new additions.