Leeds United have been given a boost in their pursuit for West Ham United’s Ashley Fletcher following claims in the Italian media the Premier League side are in pole position to sign Sassuolo star Grégoire Defrel.
There have been reports in the British media in past 24 hours Leeds United could look to move in on Fletcher in the January transfer window as Garry Monk looks to bolster his attacking options.
Earlier today the Italian media revealed West Ham are favourites to sign Defrel, which is likely to push Fletcher further down the packing order. The youngster joined the East London side in the summer transfer window, but has hardly figured despite the poor from of Simone Zaza, and injures to Andy Carroll.
The 21-year-old has made just two Premier League starts since his arrival in the last window, which has led to speculation Leeds United could look to sign him in the new year.
With Leeds United pushing for promotion this season, Monk may need to take some pressure off Chris Wood, and Fletcher is an option.
With these reports Leeds United are keen on bringing in a forward in the winter window, like West Ham could look to Italy to recruit if a move for Fletcher fails. The Elland Road side have been linked with Ternana forward Felipe Avenatti in recent months, and with there being no signs he’ll extend his contract beyond next summer Leeds United could land him on the cheap in January.
Another Serie B forward that’s been on Massimo Cellino’s radar is Massimo Coda after the Leeds United owner held talks in the summer to land the player. Coda has been in fine form for his club this season, and has also been getting attention from Serie A sides. Coda would be more difficult to land than Avenatti, but for the right price his club would consider selling him.
