Leeds United Set to Battle Everton to Sign £8m Ligue 1 Defender – Report | OneFootball

Leeds United Join Premier League Rivals in Pursuit of Lille Full-Back Gabriel Gudmundsson

Leeds United’s return to the Premier League has sparked early movement in the transfer market, and one of their top defensive priorities appears to be Lille left-back Gabriel Gudmundsson. As TeamTalk reports, the Whites are actively pursuing the Swedish international, with Everton also in the mix alongside two unnamed Premier League sides and interest from the Bundesliga.

The 27-year-old has become an integral part of Lille’s setup since arriving from FC Groningen in 2021. Known for his dual threat down the flank, Gudmundsson’s combination of attacking dynamism and defensive steel has earned him admirers across Europe. For Leeds, who are preparing for life back in the top flight, securing a dependable left-back is essential, particularly with Junior Firpo expected to leave Elland Road on a free transfer to former club Real Betis.

As the article notes: “Leeds need to bring in a replacement for left-back Junior Firpo, who is expected to re-join former club Real Betis on a free transfer.”

Photo: IMAGO

£8 Million Price Tag Makes Deal Attractive

With Gudmundsson’s contract running until 2026, Lille may choose to cash in while they can, with suggestions that a fee as low as £8 million could be enough to tempt them. In today’s market, that would represent serious value for a player of his calibre. His suitability for English football, especially in terms of physicality and tactical intelligence, only strengthens the case for a Premier League move.

As TeamTalk explains, “An £8m fee would represent a bargain for a player of his calibre, but Lille could hold firm for a slightly higher sum if bidding intensifies.”

For clubs like Leeds and Everton, who are working with measured budgets, securing a player with top-level European experience at a reasonable price is precisely the type of move that could pay long-term dividends.

Gudmundsson Keen on Premier League Move

Encouragingly for potential suitors, Gudmundsson is believed to be interested in a move to England’s top tier. Sources quoted in TeamTalk confirm that “the prospect of playing in the Premier League [is] particularly appealing” to the player.

That puts Leeds in a potentially strong position, assuming they act quickly. With Everton and two other Premier League clubs also circling, the race for his signature is heating up.

Timing will be critical. Though no advanced talks have been reported, the momentum behind Leeds’ interest could signal movement in the coming weeks, especially as Daniel Farke looks to build a squad capable of consolidating their Premier League status.

Experience and Versatility Key to Farke’s Vision

Gudmundsson’s versatility is another major plus. He has thrived in both attacking and defensive roles, making him adaptable to different tactical setups. His experience in Ligue 1, coupled with interest from Bundesliga clubs, highlights the high regard in which he is held across top European leagues.

With Leeds back among England’s elite, securing a left-back with international pedigree could be one of the most important foundations for the season ahead.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As Leeds fans bask in the joy of returning to the Premier League, stories like this only add to the excitement. Gabriel Gudmundsson feels like the perfect fit for Daniel Farke’s evolving side. At 27, he’s entering his prime, and with bags of experience from France and the Netherlands, he brings a maturity we’ll need in tough away games at places like St James’ Park or Villa Park.

We’ve struggled for consistency at left-back in recent years, and with Firpo on his way out, this move makes total sense. The fact that Gudmundsson can bomb forward and still do the dirty work defensively is exactly what’s needed in this league. For just £8 million? That’s smart business.

Also, it’s refreshing to see Leeds targeting players with ambition. If Gudmundsson is keen on the Premier League and likes the look of our project, then why not us? With Elland Road rocking next season and a team built on pace and aggression, he’d slot right in.

Let Everton scramble. We’re back, and it’s time to show we’re not here to make up the numbers.