Leeds United boss Jesse Marsch is set to play a key role as the Whites look to finally lure Red Bull Salzburg star Brenden Aaronson to Elland Road in the summer, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

Marsch was appointed as the Yorkshire outfit's head coach in February, succeeding Marcelo Bielsa just 24 hours after his sacking, and it appears he could be pivotal in negotiations for Aaronson.

What's the latest news involving Aaronson?

According to German reporter Florian Plettenberg, Leeds are the favourites to win the race for Aaronson’s services and may have to part with as much as £25million to seal the deal.

Plettenberg claims negotiations between Leeds and Salzburg are ongoing and the 18-cap United States international is keen to move onto pastures new when the transfer window reopens.

Aaronson has enjoyed an impressive season for his current employers, racking up five goals and 10 assists in 35 appearances, emphasising why he is on the Whites' radar.

The Daily Star revealed last month that Leeds believe Marsch’s strong links to Aaronson could help them to eventually sign the creative midfielder after their failed efforts during the winter window.

The report suggests Marsch has told chairman Andrea Radrizzani that he is a huge admirer of his fellow countryman and urged the Yorkshire giants to push ahead with plans to secure Aaronson's signature.

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What has Pete O'Rourke said about Aaronson?

O'Rourke believes Marsch's appointment has improved Leeds' chances of signing Aaronson during the summer transfer window.

The journalist feels teaming up with Marsch, who selected Aaronson 25 times during his time at the Salzburg helm, could be crucial as the Whites look to win the race for the American's services.

O'Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: "You've now got the extra element of Jesse Marsch being there as well, with the American influence.

"I'm sure that would play a key part in Aaronson's decision if it came down to other clubs being in the race for his signature as well."

What other clubs are interested in Aaronson?

Leeds submitted a £15million bid for Aaronson during the January transfer window, but it was turned down amid additional interest from RB Leipzig and AC Milan.

An improved offer of £20million was tabled by the Whites, but their initial pursuit of the 21-year-old ended in failure despite him being their number one target.

That could prove critical as transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has claimed some of Leeds' Premier League rivals could also look to sign Aaronson when the transfer window reopens.