---
title: "Leeds United: Whites fall behind Rennes in Fikayo Tomori race"
canonical: "https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/leeds-united-whites-will-have-to-battle-rennes-to-get-fikayo-tomori/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Luke Seychell"
section: "Leeds United"
published: "2020-12-17T16:15:47Z"
modified: "2020-12-17T16:16:54Z"
---

# Leeds United: Whites fall behind Rennes in Fikayo Tomori race

**Leeds United have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of recently linked defender Fikayo Tomori, with fresh reports suggesting where the centre-back could end up in January.**

### The latest on Tomori

The defender has [reportedly](https://www.footballinsider247.com/leeds-united-keep-tabs-on-chelsea-ace-tomori/) been seen as a potential option for Leeds to pursue on loan in the winter transfer window. However, [talkSPORT](https://twitter.com/talkSPORT/status/1339233298208477184?s=20) are now reporting that despite Leeds expressing an interest, Rennes is his most likely destination.

### This will be a blow for Leeds

Last season, the 22 year-old impressed in his 15 Premier League appearances for Chelsea. He managed 1.9 tackles, 1.5 interceptions and 2.8 clearances a game ([WhoScored](https://www.whoscored.com/Players/317507/Show/Fikayo-Tomori)). However he has struggled for game time this season, only featuring [three times](https://www.whoscored.com/Players/317507/Show/Fikayo-Tomori).

In one of his performances last season, Tomori was praised by Garth Crooks, who [said](https://www.caughtoffside.com/2019/09/16/chelseas-fikayo-tomori-praised-by-garth-crooks/): “This performance by the Chelsea youngster was outstanding and his goal only tells half the story.”

Therefore the news that Ligue 1 outfit Rennes seem to be favourites will be frustrating for Leeds. Marcelo Bielsa has three defenders currently [injured](https://www.physioroom.com/news/english_premier_league/epl_injury_table.php) and conceded twice again to Newcastle even despite the impressive victory, so this is yet another big blow for a centre-back position already in dire straits.

***In other news, [Leeds United tipped to go in for £14.4m-rated Premier League winner](https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/leeds-united-transfer-rumours/leeds-whites-elland-road-marcelo-bielsa-divock-origi-kevin-phillips/).***