Report: Leeds make decision on Juventus defender, with Wolves and Newcastle also keen

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Italian website CalcioMercato have claimed that Leeds United were interested in Juventus defender Daniele Rugani this summer but have ended their interest after signing Diego Llorente – while Wolves, Manchester City and Newcastle remain keen.

Rugani, 26, has fallen down the pecking order under Andrea Pirlo – with last summer’s signings Matthijs de Ligt and Merih Demiral considered above the Italy international. The Old Lady also boast Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini.

TuttoJuve claimed earlier this summer that defender Rugani is valued at £23million by the Italian champions. But Spain international Llorente finally penned a four-year Leeds deal on Thursday – which has led Leeds to make a decision on Rugani.

With Leeds no-longer needing another centre-back, the newly-promoted side have decided against a move for Rugani – given they are now well-stocked at centre-back, along with captain Liam Cooper and Germany international Robin Koch.

TBR’s view – Rugani a good defender, but Bielsa’s style?

Rugani is excellent in the air and is certainly comfortable on the ball. But Bielsa is renowned for preferring central defenders that are good on the ball, hence the signings of Llorente and Koch – who can both play in midfield.

The Italian is not as good as the two defensive signings when it comes to having the ball at his feet and while he is a top defender – £23million is very expensive. Leeds have made the right decision to choose Llorente over the Juve ace.