Leeds United have managed to lower Hoffenheim’s initial asking price for Georginio Rutter and are hopeful of finalising a move today, according to The Daily Mail’s Simon Jones.

The Lowdown: Rutter speculation

The Whites were first linked with a ‘massive’ move for the forward over the weekend, in the words of Sky journalist Florian Plettenberg, and a transfer has gathered plenty of pace in recent days.

Sky Sports stated on Monday evening that the 20-year-old had been due for a medical in the next 48 hours, citing a £35.3m fee for the French forward. However, it looks as if Victor Orta and co have managed to slightly reduce that figure in a fresh transfer update.

The Latest: Rutter transfer update

Jones shared a story for The Daily Mail on Wednesday morning, claiming that Leeds are hoping for a transfer to be finalised today.

The reporter adds that the club have lowered an initial asking price of around £35m to £30m, although a move for that amount would still be a club record for the Whites.

The Verdict: Good work

This transfer twist is good news for Leeds, with Orta seemingly working his magic to lower the fee at the last minute. It looks like Rutter will complete a move to Elland Road, which will be a welcome boost for everyone associated with the club.

The Whites’ last big-money centre-forward signing was Rodrigo following promotion to the Premier League in 2020. You’d expect that Rutter will be rivalling the club’s leading scorer this season for a starting berth under Jesse Marsch, while also providing an option out wide or as a number 10.