Leeds United could also look to strengthen in midfield this January after closing in on a deal for Hoffenheim striker Georginio Rutter, Daily Express journalist Ryan Taylor has told GiveMeSport.

The Whites have already brought in defender Maximilian Wöber from Red Bull Salzburg, and he looks set to be the first of a handful of winter arrivals at Elland Road.

Leeds United transfer news – midfielder

French outlet FootMercato recently revealed that Leeds made a bid for Angers midfielder Azzedine Ounahi following his outstanding performances for Morocco at the World Cup.

However, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has stated Serie A league leaders Napoli have also made their interest in the 22-year-old known, proposing a move that would see him return to Angers on loan for the remainder of the season.

And Taylor has previously informed GMS that Leeds are unlikely to sign Ounahi despite offering £17.5 million for his services, partly as he is believed to be valued at £39m.

The west Yorkshire outfit could be forced to turn their attention to alternative targets, therefore, as manager Jesse Marsch looks to bolster his engine room options.

What has Taylor said about Leeds?

Taylor has told GMS that although Ounahi is unlikely to arrive at Leeds, their interest in him indicates that central midfield is an area of the pitch Marsch wants to strengthen.

Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know

He said: “It seems like with Ounahi, he doesn't really seem overly interested in a move to Leeds following their offer.

“But they've put good money on the table, so there's always a chance, but it does also indicate that one, the money is there, and two, that midfield is also another area they could look at this month.”

Who could Leeds sign?

Italian outlet TorinoGranata claimed last month that Leeds, Manchester United and AS Roma were all monitoring the situation Torino midfielder Sasa Kukic closely.

The 26-year-old only has 18 months remaining on his current contract, and TuttoMercatoWeb has stated that he could be made available for around £13m.

“To be honest, I have big ambitions,” Lukic said (via Sport Witness) in an interview when asked about the speculation over his future. “I’m sure I’ll get where I set my sights, and whether it’s after the World Cup or next summer, we’ll see.”

Only time will tell if Leeds and director of football Victor Orta do make a formal offer for the Serbia international, but he could prove to be a viable option for Marsch this winter.