Report: Leeds United lead the chase for Virtus Francavilla midfielder Michael Folorunsho

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Leeds United are reportedly heading the race for a promising Italian midfielder. According to Italian media outlet Tutto Calcio Puglia, Virtus Francavilla midfielder Michael Folorunsho could be on his way to Leeds.

Folorunsho currently plays for Virtus Francavilla in the third tier of Italian football. He joined them in the 2017/18 season after leaving Lazio’s youth ranks.

This report notes that Bari want to sign Folorunsho. But Leeds are winning the race at the moment. Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani is reportedly playing a major role in this transfer.

Folorunsho plays in central midfield. Last season, he played 35 games in all competitions, racking up a tally of seven goals, one assist and one red card. He was a key part of Virtus Francavilla’s promotion bid, which fell narrowly short in the play-offs.

Leeds also failed to win promotion via the play-offs. But they could steal a march in this race with Radrizzani pushing to make it happen. The 21-year-old could be Leeds’ new face in midfield.

With the future of Kalvin Phillips in doubt amid rumours of an Aston Villa bid (The Telegraph), Folorunsho could be his replacement.

TBR’s view

Folorunsho will be a relative unknown to the majority of English football fans. So Leeds will have to trust Radrizzani’s judgement on this transfer.

The Rome-born midfielder of Nigerian descent has played 66 games so he is experienced in the Italian lower leagues. He also came through the ranks at Lazio so he could have the potential to become a top player.