Sky journalist names winner in race for Italian sensation wanted by Leeds

Mon 31 July 2017 15:28, UK

By Harvey Byrne

Fiorentina have won the race for teenage Italian goalkeeper sensation Federico Brancolini, according to a reliable journalist.

Sky Italy reporter Gianluca Di Marzio has claimed on his personal website that the 16-year-old Modena ace has attracted plenty of interest, including from English giants Manchester United and Leeds.

However, the youngster has decided to stay in Italy and it is said that Fiorentina have secured the deal with a signature all but remaining, which is detailed to be resolved soon.

The young stopper has never made a first team appearance, but he is clearly talented to have such clubs chasing his signature.

Leeds do however also have their own emerging goalkeeper in Bailey Peacock, who agreed a new three-year deal at the club earlier in the month.

The Yorkshire giants have also added Felix Wiedwald to their squad from Werder Bremen to add to veteran Rob Green this summer and while they may have wanted to add the bright Brancolini they are well stocked in the position.

Football Insider verdict:

Not too much is known of Brancolini given his age alongside being based in Italy’s third tier with Modena. However, he must have something about him to have clubs like Manchester United and Fiorentina chasing his name. Leeds themselves may have been a bit too ambitious to try and challenge such sides, but fans will certainly be delighted to see their club going up against the worlds best again. The feeling around the Yorkshire giants has been fantastic since Andrea Radrizzani took full charge and despite missing out on Brancolini the mood won’t deflate at all.