‘Leeds handed Brighton endorsement as Habib Diarra pursuit gathers pace’
Leeds United have set their sights on an ambitious swoop for Strasbourg midfielder Habib Diarra ahead of their Premier League return.
The 21-year-old notched four goals and five assists in 30 French Ligue 1 appearances last season, helping Liam Rosenior’s men finish seventh.
Diarra also proved his class when he scored in Senegal’s shock 3-1 victory over England at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground on 10 June.
Daniel Farke has already taken steps towards readying his squad for the Premier League, as Leeds have signed Lukas Nmecha.
Brighton interest in Diarra is encouraging for Leeds
After winning the Championship title last season, Leeds must bridge the gap between the second tier and the Premier League.
Acquiring Diarra, who boasts plenty of French top-flight experience could help Farke’s men live up to next campaign’s challenge.
Meanwhile, speaking on the latest episode of the Yorkshire Evening Post’s Leeds United Inside Elland Road podcast, Joe Donnohue said: “I think it is worth it. Ultimately, the recruitment team have identified the types of players that they want.
“He’s 21, he’s the captain at Strasbourg. Brighton have been previously linked with him, which is a massive endorsement.
“If Brighton are after a player that you’re also after, you’re probably doing something right because they don’t sign bad players, and their European scouting is spot on.”
Diarra signing could be exactly what Farke needs
Football Insider verdict
Leeds’ promotion from the Championship last season was largely thanks to their free-scoring exploits, but Farke’s men also boasted an impressive midfield in the second tier.
| Opponent | Result |
| Stoke City (H) | 6-0 W |
| Bristol City (H) | 4-0 W |
| Plymouth (A) | 1-2 W |
Ao Tanaka was a particularly outstanding performer for the West Yorkshire side last season and should be able to adjust to the Premier League.
But after winning promotion, Farke must bolster his ranks in all areas of the pitch, while Diarra could be an ideal midfielder to sign ahead of performing in the top flight.
As alluded to by Donnohue, Brighton’s interest in the Senegal man demonstrates that the 21-year-old is a player who can meet the demands of the Premier League.
Since being promoted from the Championship back in 2017, the Seagulls have established themselves as a comfortable top-flight outfit, largely courtesy of their shrewd recruitment model.
For example, Kaoru Mitoma has become one of the best wingers in the Premier League after joining from Japanese side Kawasaki in 2021.
Meanwhile, Paul Robinson has tipped Joe Gelhardt for an Elland Road exit in an MOT Leeds News exclusive.