Leeds poised to complete seven-figure move for attacker after huge development - report
Leeds United have moved one big step closer to signing Carpi striker Jerry Mbakogu, after he was made an Italian citizen.
The Yorkshire Evening Post had previously claimed that Leeds were thrashing out the terms of the deal after starting talks in January over the £4million-rated attacker.
It was claimed that they were just waiting for the striker to secure an Italian passport which would negate the need for a work permit.
That has now arrived and it was officially confirmed on the Carpi Twitter account on Thursday afternoon.
In a season filled with injury, Mbakogu has scored eight goals in 23 appearances, but hasn't played in Serie B since the beginning of March.
The 25-year-old has scored 37 goals in 128 appearances for his side, adding 22 assists.
Football Insider verdict:
Leeds fans aren't too pleased with this deal that's been rumbling along since January. £4million is a hell of a lot of money for a striker that's not proven in the Championship, and hasn't been setting the Italian lower leagues alight. However, if the YEP report is correct then this is a massive development that could see the summer deal announced soon. Victor Orta - already under siege for deals done last year – will be hoping it works out as it's his reputation that will be on the line.