Leeds United have been a dealt a blow in their quest to sign Romain Perraud this summer, with Southampton the clear front-runners to sign him.
The Lowdown: Leeds keen on Perraud
The Whites will likely be looking for a new left-back in the coming weeks, with Ezgjan Alioski expected to move on to pastures new.
Leeds have been linked with a host of players in that position, but Brest defender Perraud has arguably been mentioned the most.
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The Latest: Southampton lead the race
According to L'Equipe [via Sport Witness], Southampton are the current front-runners to sign the Frenchman, with the report stating that he is 'closer' to joining them compared to Leeds and Newcastle.
It is also claimed that the Saints and Brest have a 'good relationship' stemming from previous transfer dealings, further suggesting that Perraud could be on his way to the south coast this summer rather than Yorkshire.
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The Verdict: Left-back search continues
This is a blow for Leeds, considering Perraud scored three goals and registered seven assists in Ligue 1 last season, highlighting his attacking class.
Phil Hay has also sung his praises in a profile piece for The Athletic, writing: "Perraud, 23, played for France up to under-20s level and his performance data shows characteristics which would meet Bielsa requirements: a creative edge and a high number of dribbles and shots for a player at his position, combined with a very active role in pressing defensively."
It means that Marcelo Bielsa may have to look at other options, with Nicolas Tagliafico an experienced left-back at Ajax and Huesca's Javi Galan a younger, more explosive choice, averaging 3.3 dribbles per game in La Liga in 2020/21.
This is all assuming that Alioski moves on, but should the North Macedonian stay put, the need for reinforcements wouldn't be as pressing.
In other news, one player is reportedly ready to join Leeds this summer. Find out who it is here.