Leeds United have ‘moved on’ from Marseille striker Bamba Dieng following their failed deadline day pursuit, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The Whites appeared to have wrapped up a deal for the in-demand 22-year-old in the final stages of the summer window before a dramatic turn of events saw him reject a switch in favour of remaining in Ligue 1.

What is the latest news involving Bamba Dieng?

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed that Leeds' director of football Victor Orta had reached an agreement with both Marseille and Dieng over a potential deal at the end of August.

However, the Senegal international, who was valued at €15 million (£12.7m) then received a last-minute offer from OGC Nice, and his agent began negotiations with the French outfit from the airport.

Romano claimed that Leeds were so furious with the situation that they decided to leave the talks for Dieng, pulling out of the deal.

But it seems Jesse Marsch’s charges could have had a lucky escape when it comes to Bamba Dieng as complications with his medical meant he was not able to complete the switch to Nice.

The pacey forward is now set to remain on the sidelines at Marseille until at least the winter window, but it appears unlikely that Leeds will revive their interest in him.

What has Jones said about Dieng?

Jones doesn’t believe that Leeds will go back in for Dieng when the transfer market re-opens for business and reckons they will ‘seek other forward options’ if it’s still an area of the pitch Marsch wants to strengthen.

In an interview with GiveMeSport, he said: “I don't think so. There's no sign really that they’re going to go back in for that one in January.

“I think they've moved on from it, and they'll seek other forward options if they do need new life in January.”

Do Leeds still need a striker?

After missing out on Dieng, Leeds were able to bring in Wilfried Gnonto from FC Zurich after he registered 10 goals and five assists in 36 appearances last season.

The 18-year-old fired his former employers to their first Swiss Super League title in 13 years and became the youngest scorer in the history of the Italian national side in what was a real breakout campaign for him.

Gnonto penned a five-year deal upon his arrival at Leeds, and he could provide the ideal backup to star striker Patrick Bamford.

Fellow youngsters Joe Gelhardt and Sam Greenwood are also at the club, and Marsch may feel he now has enough firepower at his disposal.