Leeds close to signing AC Milan winger Noah Okafor | OneFootball

Leeds United are closing in on a deal to sign Noah Okafor (h/t journalist Fabrizio Romano).

They still have final details to finalise with AC Milan, but the deal is expected to go through.

Manager Daniel Farke is keen to bolster his options ahead of a long and gruelling campaign, where he will need all hands on deck.

The Whites need a top-calibre option to call upon if Wilfried Gnonto suffers an injury or loses form.

Leeds have turned to Okafor, who started last season at Milan but ended up winning the Scudetto with Napoli after joining on loan.

Okafor’s time in Milan has been underwhelming. He bagged only seven goals and five assists in 54 appearances for the Rossoneri.

However, he has proven to be a potent weapon off the bench.

His 5.71 progressive carries and 3.42 successful take-ons per 90 minutes are excellent numbers. He can help Leeds avoid relegation this term.

Leeds took a big step towards their goal of survival with a 1-0 opening day victory over Everton at Elland Road.

The home side dominated for long spells and carved out the better chances, but it still took a late penalty to secure victory on their Premier League return.

Farke admitted he was nervous when substitute Lukas Nmecha stepped up, but he remained composed to convert the decisive spot-kick in the 84th minute.

The penalty was awarded against James Tarkowski after Anton Stach’s shot struck his arm.

Tarkowski’s arms appeared to be tucked by his side, but the officials ruled he had leaned into the ball.