Leeds United are showing a "real statement of intent" by targeting Borussia Dortmund defender Raphael Guerreiro, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The Yorkshire club are said to be preparing a contract offer for the 28-year-old, who will be a free agent next summer.

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

What is the latest news involving Guerreiro?

TEAMtalk recently claimed that Leeds are admirers of Guerreiro and are readying a deal for the Portuguese left-back.

Given Guerreiro's profile, a European Championship winner currently playing for one of football's biggest clubs, it would be a bit of a surprise if Leeds made a move for the Dortmund star and managed to land him.

The chance to ply his trade in England may appeal to him, though, while the Whites obviously have Premier League money to offer when it comes to his contract.

In the summer, transfer insider Dean Jones told GIVEMESPORT that Leeds were looking at Guerreiro, so their interest in the Portugal international is not new. Back then, Ruhr Nachrichten claimed Dortmund valued their player at around £22m.

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What has O'Rourke said about Guerreiro to Leeds?

O'Rourke thinks Leeds are showing real ambition by targeting Guerreiro.

Speaking to GMS, the journalist said: "It's a real statement of intent from Leeds if they're trying to make a move to sign Guerreiro, a player with a brilliant CV. He's played for some top clubs like Dortmund now in the Champions League, has experience playing for Portugal in tournaments as well."

What would Guerreiro bring to Elland Road?

A lot. He obviously has plenty of experience and at the highest level, competing at the top of the Bundesliga, in the Champions League and at international tournaments with Portugal.

What really stands out with Guerreiro, though, is the threat he carries going forward. As per Transfermarkt, during his time at Dortmund, he has been involved in over 70 goals in 200-plus games. He would add a whole new dimension to Jesse Marsch's side.

Given that quality, though, Leeds are not going to get a free run at this. In fact, according to TEAMtalk, Italian giants Juventus are also interested in signing the former Lorient man.

Whatever the case, Leeds could probably do with a new left-back, as Junior Firpo has had quite a few injury problems and has not really set Elland Road alight since arriving there.

If that left-back happens to be Guerreiro, then it would be tremendous business. But again, convincing him to join will not be an easy task for Leeds.

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