Leeds 'favourites' to seal Julian Brandt transfer: 'From what I'm hearing...'
Leeds United are currently leading the race to sign free-agent midfielder Julian Brandt this summer.
That is according to former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, who believes that the Whites have forced their way to the front of the queue for the German's signature.
This comes after reports that the 30-year-old's father was at the club's Thorp Arch training ground for fresh transfer talks last week.
Wyness believes that Daniel Farke and Co. are "favourites" to land the former Borussia Dortmund man, in what he feels would be a "marquee" deal for them.
The Premier League insider suggested that he expects the deal to get done, despite Leeds facing heavy competition from clubs across Europe.
Brandt has been heavily linked with both Juventus and Roma in recent days, but Leeds are understood to be leading the charge at the moment.
Keith Wyness: Julian Brandt a perfect fit for Leeds
Everton’s former chief Wyness – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – believes that Brandt would fit "exactly" what Leeds are looking to add to their squad this summer.
The attacking midfielder has made over 380 Bundesliga appearances throughout his career, and notched 11 league goal involvements last term, while also having vast experience in the Champions League.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider's Inside Track podcast, Wyness stressed that Leeds are closing in on a deal for him.
"Leeds are favourites right now to get it done from what I'm hearing as well. I think that would be a real marquee signing for Leeds," he said.
"I think Brandt is a real talent and he fits exactly what they're looking for in the squad. I think Farke is upgrading the squad now from what I can see as well.
"I'm seeing Leeds having a positive transfer window at the moment, and I think this is one that will get done."
Leeds will see £20m Oumar Solet offer accepted
Football Insider revealed last week that Leeds can sign Udinese centre-back Oumar Solet for just £20million in the coming weeks, ahead of his contract expiring in the summer of 2027.
The 26-year-old has established himself as one of Serie A's top defenders, and is also firmly on the radars of both Inter Milan and Juventus at the moment.
Leeds face fierce competition for the Frenchman's signature, but know that it won't take a drastic financial commitment to sign him.
Farke is keen to add further depth to the backline ahead of the season getting underway, and Soulet has emerged as a clear option.