Leeds United and Newcastle United are both monitoring Lens midfielder Seko Fofana, according to The Daily Mail.

The Lowdown: Fofana profiled

Fofana, labelled as a 'phenom' by journalist Zach Lowy, is 26 years of age and can play as a defensive, central or attacking midfielder.

The Ivory Coast international wasn’t selected for the Africa Cup of Nations despite scoring seven goals for his club already this season.

A former Manchester City youngster, Fofana is under contract until 2024 but picks up just £20,000-a-week, less than the likes of Leeds youngsters Pascal Struijk and Tyler Roberts.

The Latest: Leeds join race

The Daily Mail shared a story after midnight on Wednesday evening, revealing that Burnley have held talks over a move for Fofana.

The report then added that both Leeds and Newcastle are monitoring the Ivorian, with the French side possibly willing to sell this month.

The Verdict: Sign

Leeds are in desperate need of midfield reinforcements, and landing Fofana ahead of their relegation rivals could be a shrewd move.

He is at the absolute top of his game with a career-high £16.2m Transfermarkt valuation and seems to be impressing in Ligue 1, with Lowy gushing over the 'domination' of the PSG midfield when Fofana scored in a 1-1 draw last month.

The rising star would also be able to play in three different midfield roles at Elland Road, which could be crucial between now and the end of the season with the Whites short on numbers.

Andrea Radrizzani may find it tough to pip big-money Newcastle, should the Magpies firm up their interest, but if they don’t, then they may look to secure the Ivorian ahead of Burnley in what could be a wise deal.

In other news: 'I know' - Journalist drops transfer claim on Leeds and midfielder who shares agent with Forshaw.