Report suggests Leeds United failed in transfer approach for Mohamed Elyounoussi

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Leeds United reportedly missed out in a bid to bring in Norwegian international Mohamed Elyounoussi this summer. 

Norwegian outlet TV2 report that the West Yorkshire club made an approach for the Southampton attacker in the summer. 

However, the deal could not be done, because of his current wage situation. 

Elyounoussi, according to the BBC, cost Southampton a fee in the region of £16 million in 2018. However, the former FC Basel star struggled at St Mary’s. He played just 16 games in the Premier League last season and barely featured after the appointment of Ralph Hasenhuttl as manager. 

Therefore, it is no surprise to hear that the Saints were considering letting Elyounoussi head to Elland Road. 

Unfortunately, as reported by TV2, Leeds simply could not afford the wages needed to make a deal happen. 

TBR’s View

It is not known exactly when Leeds made a move for Elyounoussi, but he could have been a great recruit for the club. 

Whilst he struggled at Southampton, his 2017-18 with Basel was very impressive. The winger scored 13 goals and assisted 17. That included a goal and assist as Basel defeated Manchester City at The Etihad in a Champions League clash. 

But it is clear Leeds have had to operate on a budget this summer and Jack Harrison, Jack Clarke and Helder Costa’s services were all secured this summer. 

So whilst Elyounoussi would have been a great recruit, Leeds have done well to strengthen the wide positions regardless.