Report: Leeds could sign ‘very direct’ World Cup semi-finalist for just £7m

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Leeds United have been linked with Morocco international Abdelhamid Sabiri in recent weeks.

In early December, when the World Cup was in full swing, the Whites were said to be eyeing the Sampdoria ace.

Samp News 24 – via Sport Witness – claimed Leeds would’ve needed at least €10m (£8.9m) to sign Sabiri.

Now, Calciomercato has reported that the Elland Road side could sign the 26-year-old for a lower sum.

The Italian outlet – also via Sport Witness – claims Sampdoria are willing to start talks at €8m (£7m).

However, Leeds could reportedly try to sign Sabiri for even less.

CM claims the Whites could initially ‘put a figure between €6-7m (£5.2-6.1m) on the plate’.

While this is lower than what Samp are asking for, it ‘would not be impossible to find an agreement’ if such an amount was put forward.

Leeds target Sabiri – factfile

Sabiri’s primary position is attacking midfielder, though he can also play at central midfield and on the left flank.

He played a part in Morocco’s impressive campaign in Qatar, the Atlas Lions reaching the semi-finals.

Sabiri featured in each of his nation’s Group F games, the last-16 win over Spain, and the third-place playoff against Croatia.

At club level, Sabiri has made 13 appearances in all competitions for Samp this season, including 11 in Serie A.

The Moroccan also spent two years on the books at Huddersfield, making 13 appearances for the Terriers.

Although Sabiri didn’t get much game time for the Yorkshire side, he kickstarted his career at Paderborn in 2019-20.

In September 2020, he moved to Ascoli in Italy, before linking up with Samp in the summer of 2022.

Total Football Analysis have described Sabiri as a ‘very direct player who likes to move the ball quickly and vertically in order to advance play quickly’.

Sabiri seems like a decent shout for Leeds.

He has plenty of experience at the highest level, including some at the Premier League. He’s also talented, has developed a lot in recent years, and would be a bargain for an English top-flight club.