Sources: Leeds United submit loan-to-buy Nicolo Zaniolo bid
Leeds United have submitted a loan-to-buy offer for Roma star Nicolo Zaniolo, sources have told Football Insider.
The Serie A giants would prefer a permanent deal for the attacking midfielder, 23, but United hope that may change during deadline day.
Leeds are working on a deal for Zaniolo amid doubts over the future of Jack Harrison.
He has attracted strong interest from Leicester City, who have submitted a bid for him during the January window.
It is expected that Leeds will only push through the signing of Zaniolo if a deal gets agreed with Leicester for Harrison.
Zaniolo has previously spoken to Tottenham and AC Milan this month and has also been the subject of strong Bournemouth interest.
He is open to joining a top Premier League club and is believed to be very keen on Leeds if a last-gasp agreement can be secured.
Zaniolo has made 17 Roma appearances this season, registering two goals and three assists.
The Italy international was also a key part of Jose Mourinho’s side as they lifted the Europa Conference League last season – notching eight goals and nine assists in 42 appearances across all competitions.
He has bounced back from two cruciate ligament ruptures in back-to-back seasons to resume his role as a key player for the Serie A club.
Leeds United have already wrapped up four signings this month – with Georginio Rutter, Max Wober, Weston McKennie, and Diogo Monteiro all bolstering the ranks at Elland Road.
According to Transfermarkt, the Whites’ transfer spending for the 2022-23 season now stands at almost £128million.
Jesse Marsch’s side sit 15th in the Premier League ahead of their trip to Nottingham Forest on Sunday (5 February).
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