Leeds reportedly want to sign £21m ace Woodgate has called ‘aggressive, strong and quick’

Tue 23 August 2022 18:15, UK

Leeds United have been linked with Tottenham Hotspur defender Japhet Tanganga in recent days.

On Monday, claimed that Jesse Marsch’s Whites had joined the race for the Spurs talent.

As well as Leeds, the likes of Newcastle, Everton and AC Milan are reportedly eyeing Tanganga too.

The Tottenham gem has fallen down the defensive pecking order under Antonio Conte.

Tanganga reportedly remains Milan’s top target at the back, but a sticking point remains.

Namely, that Spurs are apparently only willing to sanction a simple loan, while the Rossoneri want a buying option.

This has seemingly allowed other clubs into contention, with Leeds reportedly joining the race on Monday.

Previous reports suggested Tottenham value Tanganga at up to £21million.

Leeds cult hero Jonathan Woodgate has previously praised the 23-year-old.

Last year, he wrote in the : “At Spurs, I like Japhet Tanganga.

“I think Nuno will try to forge a partnership between Eric Dier and Cristian Romero.

“But longer-term look out for Tanganga, who is aggressive, strong and quick.”

Do Leeds really need Tanganga?

Tanganga is a top talent who certainly has the qualities to shine in the Premier League.

However, Leeds aren’t exactly short of players at centre-back and right-back.

Marsch has Rasmus Kristensen, Luke Ayling (who’s coming back from injury) and Cody Drameh at right-back.

And at centre-back, the Leeds boss has Liam Cooper, Diego Llorente, Robin Koch and Pascal Struijk.

The latter has been playing at centre-back, but Junior Firpo should be back pretty soon.

All in all, it’s a pretty surprising transfer report, with Leeds likely to be prioritising other areas, like up front.