“Done Deal Confirmed: Leeds United Make Ruthless £10m Call, Drop Pursuit of Rising African Star”

Leeds United Not Pursuing Senegal Star Amid Left-Back Reinforcement

Leeds United are not expected to pursue Senegal international El Hadji Malick Diouf, despite recent national reports linking the defender with a move to Elland Road.

The 20-year-old, who currently plays for Sparta Praha in the Czech top flight, had been mentioned in connection with Leeds following his standout performance in Senegal’s 3-1 victory over England at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground. Diouf featured alongside former Whites target Habib Diarra, who has since sealed a high-profile £30 million transfer to Sunderland.

However, sources close to the club have told the Yorkshire Evening Post that Diouf is not on Leeds’ radar this summer, and that no move is currently being considered for the left-sided defender.

Diouf, an attacking full-back by trade, has enjoyed a rapid rise in European football since first arriving from Senegal just over two years ago. After a brief stint in Norway with Tromsø IL, the youngster made a €2.3 million switch to Sparta Praha in January 2024. Since then, his stock has continued to rise, culminating in his recent debut for the Senegal national team.

But despite his growing reputation, Leeds have already addressed their need at left-back with the signing of Gabriel Gudmundsson, making any move for Diouf increasingly unlikely.

Gudmundsson, a Swedish international, joined the Whites earlier this week in a £10 million deal. He becomes the club’s new first-choice option at left-back, replacing Junior Firpo, whose time at Elland Road is expected to come to an end following an underwhelming spell in West Yorkshire.

The 25-year-old arrives from Ligue 1, where he impressed with his athleticism, defensive awareness and ability to contribute in the attacking third. His signing marks a clear statement of intent from manager Daniel Farke, who is reshaping his side for a promotion charge this season.

With Gudmundsson now firmly in place, Leeds are believed to be satisfied with their depth at left-back and are unlikely to entertain further additions in that position.

Although Diouf may be attracting attention elsewhere in Europe, particularly after his showing against England, Leeds are focused on strengthening other areas of the squad as pre-season preparations continue.

While speculation around Diouf’s potential Premier League future may persist, it’s clear that Elland Road is not set to be his next destination.

Instead, attention now turns to other priorities for the club, with fans eager to see how Gudmundsson and the rest of the summer signings fit into Farke’s system as Leeds aim to return to the top flight at the second time of asking.