Sources: Leeds hold 'edge' over Aston Villa in Zion Suzuki chase
Leeds United are currently ahead of Aston Villa in the race to sign Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, sources have told Football Insider.
The Whites are currently "doing their homework" on the 23-year-old and are in a much stronger position to strike a deal than their Premier League rivals.
Villa are currently waiting to find out where Emiliano Martinez's future lies before making any concrete moves for a new number one.
Sources have indicated that Leeds "hold the edge" for Suzuki and are trying to strike a quick deal as a result, before Unai Emery's side can enter the picture with any sort of offer.
Daniel Farke's side have the addition of a new gloveman as one of their top priorities this summer, with a replacement for Lucas Perri high on their shopping list.
Suzuki kept five clean sheets in 20 Serie A appearances last term, and helped to steer Parma well clear of any relegation trouble.
Leeds target Zion Suzuki enjoys huge reputation boost
Suzuki has established himself as one of Italian football's brightest young goalkeepers in recent years, but he has now performed on the global stage.
The starlet represented Japan at the World Cup, and caught the eye even when his country's tournament came to a close with their defeat to Brazil on Monday.
Suzuki made four saves to keep his side in that encounter, having also previously achieved that total in two of their three group stage matches.
The former Saint Truiden man has enhanced his reputation significantly with his performances in North America, and he is expected to have plenty of suitors this summer.
Leeds are planning a swift swoop to nail down their target before any of their competitors have a chance to act on their interest.
The youngster boasted a stronger save percentage than both Perri and Karl Darlow last season, and could yet be between the posts at Elland Road next term.
49ers told to 'get a grip' over legal action
Former Aston Villa chief executive Keith Wyness has told Football Insider that Premier League owners need to "get a grip" over the lawsuits that are becoming more commonplace at the moment.
Leeds are considering taking legal action against Leicester City for a PSR breach back in the 2023-24 campaign, with the inference that their overspend prevented the Whites from securing promotion to the Premier League.
Wyness has urged the 49ers to step away from any plans for a lawsuit, as they are "damaging the spirit" of the Premier League.
This comes after Everton have been ordered to pay £35million in compensation to Burnley for a historical breach of their own, another verdict that Wyness is strongly against.