Leeds United are still in the race to sign Watford forward Ismaila Sarr, according to France-based journalist Abdellah Boulma.

The Lowdown: Villa move collapses

It looked as if the 24-year-old, labelled a “freak” of a talent with “scary” ability by former team-mate Ben Foster, was going to sign for Aston Villa.

Steven Gerrard’s side agreed on a £25m fee plus add-ons over the weekend, but news broke on Monday morning that Villa have walked away from a transfer.

That has led to a revival of rumours regarding a move to Elland Road, with Boulma providing a new update a few hours after a proposed move to Villa Park fell through.

The Latest: Leeds still keen on Sarr

Sky Sports have shared Leeds’ interest in Sarr in recent weeks, with reports elsewhere even suggesting that the club were close to an agreement.

Boulma took to Twitter in the last 24 hours to reveal that the Whites ‘are still in the race’ for the Senegal international.

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The Verdict: James replacement?

It seems as if Andrea Radrizzani and Victor Orta still have their eyes on a move for Sarr, who could well be a shrewd replacement for Dan James.

The Welshman has struggled since moving to Elland Road, scoring just four times in 37 games, and he has been used out of position as a centre-forward on a number of occasions.

Spurs have now been linked with a late move for James, and should that go through, Sarr could be a perfect addition for Leeds.

The Watford man has scored 58 goals during his club and international career and can play anywhere in attack, so he could could suit Jesse March’s versatile attacking system, and this may well be one to watch over the next few days.