Leeds United have been dealt a transfer setback after learning that forward target Ben Brereton Diaz is closing in on a move to Villarreal, according to reports.
The Lowdown: Scouting mission
The Blackburn Rovers striker will be out of contract at Ewood Park at the end of the season, and over the past few months, this has alerted several potential suitors that a deal could be struck.
The Chile international has been the subject of strong interest from the Whites for some time, with Leeds chiefs having watched him in action on numerous occasions this term and reports confirming he's a 'long time target'.
Following a fresh update however, it sounds like he won’t be making his way to Elland Road.
The Latest: Brereton Diaz to Villarreal?
According to Football Insider, Brereton-Diaz is now in ‘advanced talks’ to join Villarreal in a ‘blow’ to both Leeds and West Ham, his other Premier League admirer.
The La Liga giants are ‘confident of finalising terms’ following a positive round of negotiations on Wednesday, despite Leeds and the Hammers 'trailing' the player.
The 23-year-old could sign a pre-contract agreement ahead of a free transfer in the summer, though a move this month has also been mentioned for a fee in the region of £8m.
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The Verdict: Setback for Marsch?
Brereton Diaz has been hailed as a ‘phenomenal’ player by R.D football scout so it’s a definite setback for Jesse Marsch to learn that he looks likely to miss out on securing one of his long-term transfer targets.
The Stoke On Trent-born talent has already posted 13 goal contributions in 26 Championship appearances this term, averaging 2.7 shots per 90 minutes (WhoScored).
The Rovers talisman would have been the ideal attacking reinforcement to come in and try to steer the Whites to safety, but they will have to hope that new arrival Georginio Rutter is able to have the same desired effect.