Leeds United have now opened talks to sign a Europa League midfielder, with their first official offer set to be sent in a matter of weeks.
Leeds looking to strengthen in midfield amid downturn in form
While they still remain outside the Premier League relegation zone, Leeds’ form has gone downhill in recent weeks, most recently suffering a 2-0 defeat away against Burnley, which could prove to be a real six-pointer at the end of the season.
Speaking after the match, manager Daniel Farke claimed the result was “tough to take”, given that the Whites were the better team on the balance of play, with Brenden Aaronson hitting the woodwork, while Jack Harrison, Lukas Nmecha and Jayden Bogle also missed big chances.
Ultimately, however, it is a results business, and Farke’s side now find themselves just three points clear of 18th-placed Nottingham Forest, with the Clarets also closing the gap to just one point courtesy of their victory on Saturday.
It is still a little early to panic, considering the Elland Road outfit remain outside the bottom three, but Farke may have one eye on the January transfer window, and it has now been revealed that a new midfielder is of interest.
That is according to a report from Africa Foot (via Sport Witness), which reveals Leeds have now opened talks over a deal for Maccabi Tel Aviv’s Issouf Sissokho, who has emerged as a target for the January window.
The Whites plan to send their first official offer within a matter of weeks, given that talks with Sissokho’s entourage are progressing nicely, although it is unclear what sort of fee the Israeli side will demand to sanction a departure.
A verbal agreement with the Malian could soon be reached, with a winter move on the cards, and there are signs he could be a fantastic acquisition for the west Yorkshire outfit.
Pass-master Sissokho could be fantastic signing
The Maccabi Tel Aviv maestro is particularly impressive in possession of the ball, placing in the 99th percentile for his pass completion rate per 90 over the past year, when compared to other midfielders, having averaged 93.2%.
The defensive midfielder has also gained experience at a high level, having made ten Europa League appearances during his time with Maccabi Tel Aviv, and the 23-year-old was particularly impressive against Greek side PAOK at the end of September.
Indeed, the Mali international put in a solid display in a holding midfield role to help his side pick up a clean sheet, recording a 100% pass completion rate, while also completing four defensive actions.
Leeds have been left a little light on options in central midfield at times this season, with Ao Tanaka and Ethan Ampadu spending time on the sidelines, so it could make sense to bring in another option, and Sissokho has proven he could be a solid addition.