REPORT; £3.2m offer for 25-year-old Japan star

The rumour mill is well underway with Leeds United linked with a plethora of new players ahead of the summer transfer window and one has now changed his agent, amid reports Leeds are interested.

The 49ers need to cash in on a number of big players this summer in order to comply with Financial Fairplay rules. But equally, those players will need to be replaced at Leeds while keeping a healthy profit.

Last summer, Leeds tabled a £3.2m bid for 25-year-old Japan star Ao Tanaka but a bid was rejected by second-tier German side Dusseldorf. Leeds have reignited their interest in Tanaka, with Everton also keen.

This time around, it is different. Tanaka is desperate to go after Dusseldorf missed out on promotion to the top tier via the play-offs, and Tanaka’s club are desperate to sell to bring in some much-needed cash.

Now, the Rheinische Post say “leader” Tanaka has changed his agents after links with Leeds. From agency CAA Base, to Sports 360 who boast big names on their client list like Toni Kroos and Julian Nagelsmann.

All eyes will be on Bellingham this evening as England take on Denmark in their second match of Euro 2024. A win books England’s place in the last 16, handing them a great chance to finish top of the group.

Tanaka has been likened to Bellingham, by the Bundesliga’s official website. Certainly, that ability to have an impact at both ends of the pitch is a trait shared by the Real Madrid star, and Leeds target Tanaka.

“Tanaka goes box to box, is emerging as an on-field leader like Jude Bellingham. He cleans up from deep – averaging almost nine tackles won per Bundesliga 2 game in 2022/23 – and get forward when possible.”