Leeds United are reportedly attempting to edge out Ipswich Town in the race to sign Blackburn Rovers forward Sammie Szmodics.
While the playmaker has made a career out of being a relatively consistent performer in the EFL, he took his career to new heights in 2023-24.
In a struggling Blackburn side, the 28-year-old contributed an outstanding 27 goals and four assists from 44 appearances.
That was enough for the Republic of Ireland international to top the goalscoring charts in the second tier, as well as keep himself in the shop window.
Although Szmodics has two years remaining on his contract, there is an acceptance at Blackburn that they may cash in on their most prized asset for the right price.
© Reuters
Ipswich facing fierce competition
Over the past 48 hours, it has been claimed that Premier League newcomers Ipswich are in advanced talks to sign Szmodics.
However, the Tractor Boys are said to be considerably below Blackburn's valuation, the suggestion being that they have made a £6m offer.
According to talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook, Leeds have now decided to enter the race for the in-demand attacker.
Crook says that Leeds have "formalised" their interest in Szmodics, the assumption being that an official offer has been made or will follow.
The Yorkshire giants are known to need to make further player sales during the summer transfer window, yet they have already generated a sizeable fee for Archie Gray.
At least one of Crysencio Summerville and Willy Gnonto are expected to follow in due course, freeing up extra funds to acquire a suitable replacement.
© Reuters
How may the situation pan out?
Much will depend if Blackburn's asking price, said to be in the region of £20m is met, with a compromise likely required to facilitate an exit for Szmodics.
Blackburn do not necessarily have to do that having already sold Adam Wharton to Crystal Palace in January, yet they know that raising the biggest fee possible from a sale of a 28-year-old could stand them in good stead to rebuild the squad.
As it stands, Szmodics's preference is unclear, but this is a player who is yet to accumulate a single minute of Premier League football in his career.
Even though he could plausibly earn promotion with Leeds, turning down a top-flight side at this stage of his playing days would feel like a bold move.
Darren Plant
