Godwin ObajeLeeds United Plot £12m Move for Himad Abdelli in Midfield Reinforcement Push
Leeds United are preparing a £12 million bid for Angers playmaker Himad Abdelli as they continue to reshape their squad ahead of their Premier League return, according to Football Insider.
The Whites have moved swiftly in the early stages of the summer window, already securing Lukas Nmecha and Jaka Bijol as Daniel Farke looks to build a side capable of competing in the top flight. Abdelli, a technically gifted midfielder in his prime at 25, is being lined up as the club’s third major addition of the window.
Farke’s side is aiming to bolster creativity in the centre of the pitch, having identified the need for more guile and consistency following their promotion from the Championship. The club’s recruitment team has been tracking Abdelli throughout the Ligue 1 campaign and now believes he is ready to take the step up to English football.
Leeds view Abdelli as a player who can thrive in Farke’s structured, possession-based system, offering both vision and the ability to unlock tight defences — attributes that became increasingly vital during their push for automatic promotion last season.
While Angers are reluctant to lose one of their standout performers, financial realities may force their hand. A bid in the region of £12 million is expected to test their resolve. Leeds are reportedly looking to move quickly, hoping to stave off interest from other European clubs and secure Abdelli’s signature without delay.
The midfielder has been one of Angers’ most consistent performers, dictating play from deep and also contributing with goals and assists. His intelligent movement and composure under pressure have earned him plaudits in France and marked him out as a future international contender for Algeria, whom he represents at senior level.
Should the deal be completed, Abdelli would become Leeds’ third summer signing after Nmecha and Bijol — a strong signal of the club’s intent to establish themselves back in the Premier League after a season in the second tier. The club has been proactive in its planning, recognising that strength in depth will be vital if they are to survive and thrive over a 38-game campaign.
Leeds are also exploring other options, with Lecce striker Nikola Krstovic among the forwards being monitored, as Farke seeks to add both goals and flexibility across the front line. The club remains in dialogue with multiple targets, keen to wrap up business early and allow new additions to integrate during pre-season.
With the Premier League season set to kick off in just over a month, Leeds’ aggressive approach in the transfer market reflects a clear ambition: to avoid another relegation scrap and begin establishing themselves as a permanent fixture among English football’s elite.
If Himad Abdelli does arrive at Elland Road, he could well be the creative force that unlocks Leeds’ attacking potential — and helps shape the club’s long-term Premier League aspirations.
Godwin Obaje
