Leeds United are being linked with an attacking star that sparkled during 2023-24 with 23 goals and assists, who Ruud Gullit once described as “exceptionally good”.
Leeds are expected to be busy in the summer window, in terms of both outgoings and incoming signings. A number of players are set to be sold, with The 49ers keen on bringing in some cash to reduce debts.
While Leeds do need to sell a number of players, they will also need replacing as The Whites look to make a profit. Crysencio Summerville is being eyed by Liverpool, Chelsea, Fulham, West Ham and Bournemouth.
Newcastle have discussed a move for The Dutchman behind the scenes while Palace could make a move if Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze are sold by Oliver Glasner’s Eagles in the coming weeks and months.
Willy Gnonto is also keen on an exit with Inter Milan perhaps set to make a move and one star the Whites could look to sign as a replacement, is Karamoko Dembele and Ruud Gullit is a big fan of the wide man.
Gullit said Leeds target Karamoko Dembele was special, at just 13
Dembele, now 21, was seen as the next big thing in British football as he came through the ranks at Celtic. But the diminutive star had failed to live up to reputation north of the border, just 10 senior appearances.
He moved to Brest in France but no goals or assists in 18 saw him return to England on loan at Blackpool. A move that has worked, playing 47 games in 2023-24 and producing an impressive 23 goals and assists.
Such form has attracted interest from many in the Championship, or the Premier League. Leeds, Everton, Forest, Fulham, West Ham, Brentford, Leicester , Southampton, Sheffield Wednesday and Middlesbrough.
When he was 13, breaking into Celtic’s side, Dembele earned praise from Dutch footballing legend Gullit. He said he had watched clips of Dembele on YouTube and said he was “special”, quoted by the Standard.
“He looks pretty special. I saw Dembele playing on YouTube. What a player. Exceptionally good – and left-footed as well. I just love to see players like that. While this is great experience, we have to give him time.”
Dembele needs a move and Elland Road would suit the winger
With Gnonto and Summerville the most-likely two to be sold by Leeds this summer, and Jaidon Anthony returning to Bournemouth after his loan spell, The Whites need to bring in a winger or two at Elland Road.
Dan James remains if Summerville and Gnonto go and Daniel Farke might be best signing two or even three new wide men. The Premier League is a big, immediate step up from League One for Dembele.
He needs to treat the Championship as a stepping stone, continue that upward curve towards the big time rather than leaping for it and failing. Leeds gives him the perfect platform to continue upwards.