Leeds United Pursues Juventus Striker Openda; Ipswich Targets Deossa

Leeds United is reportedly keen on acquiring Juventus striker Lois Openda during the upcoming summer transfer window. Despite recently securing Openda on a permanent deal from RB Leipzig, Juventus is prepared to allow his departure after the conditions of the obligation-to-buy clause were fulfilled.

Openda had a challenging loan spell in Turin, scoring only two goals in 34 competitive matches.

Everton has also expressed interest in the 26-year-old forward, but Leeds is among the clubs most eager to sign him this summer, according to TEAMtalk. The player’s representatives have initiated discussions with Leeds, who are monitoring his situation closely.

Leeds appears to see Openda as a strong contender to challenge Dominic Calvert-Lewin for the starting number nine position at Elland Road. Nottingham Forest is also believed to be interested in the Belgian striker, who is expected to command a transfer fee between €35 million (£30.3 million) and €40 million (£34.6 million).

© Imago / Pressinphoto.

Ipswich Sets Sights on Deossa

In other transfer news, Ipswich Town has reportedly learned the asking price for Real Betis midfielder Nelson Deossa. Following Kieran McKenna’s departure, the Tractor Boys are actively seeking a new manager and aiming to assemble a squad capable of competing at Premier League level after their recent promotion.

According to ABC Sevilla, via Sports Witness, Ipswich has identified Deossa as a target for their summer recruitment. Argentine club River Plate and Brazilian team Vasco da Gama are also interested in the 26-year-old midfielder.

Betis is expected to demand at least €10 million (£8.6 million) for Deossa, despite having signed him from Monterrey just last summer. He participated in 33 matches for Manuel Pellegrini’s squad but started only eight of his 20 La Liga appearances.

Millwall Announces First Summer Signing

In Championship news, Millwall has confirmed Jenson Metcalfe as their first signing of the summer transfer window. The midfielder joins from League One club Bradford City for an undisclosed fee.

Metcalfe has signed a long-term contract with Millwall after playing a pivotal role in Bradford’s playoff run last season, making 49 competitive appearances and earning a nomination for League One Player of the Year.

Millwall’s Director of Football Steve Gallen commented on Metcalfe’s signing: “We’ve been tracking him for a few years now, from his days at Everton Under-21s to his loan at Chesterfield and then onto Bradford, having watched him several times.”.

Gallen added that Metcalfe was integral to Bradford’s success last year and possesses qualities that will enhance Millwall’s squad. He emphasized that this signing reflects the club’s commitment to acquiring promising young talent while continuing to develop players through their academy.