Leeds in advanced talks for Conrad Harder as rivals fall behind

Leeds United are reportedly in advanced negotiations to sign RB Leipzig striker Conrad Harder, with the Premier League club making significant progress in the race for the 21-year-old.

Harder has attracted interest from Lazio and Galatasaray in recent weeks, but Leeds have now moved into a strong position as Daniel Farke looks to add another attacking option before the transfer deadline.

A potential deal could be structured as a loan with an option to buy, although the final terms of negotiations have yet to be revealed.

Earlier reports had Lazio ahead of Leeds in the battle for Harder, but the situation has now changed.

According to Corriere della Sera, Leeds are in advanced negotiations with RB Leipzig, complicating Lazio's hopes of bringing the Denmark international to Serie A.

Harder's representatives have reportedly been exploring several possible destinations after a difficult period in Germany.

The striker joined Leipzig from Sporting CP in 2025 but struggled to establish himself as a regular starter last season.

He played fewer than 1,000 Bundesliga minutes and scored three league goals, increasing speculation that Leipzig could allow him to leave.

Lazio remain interested, with manager Rino Gattuso reportedly viewing Harder as a potential addition to his attack.

However, the Italian club first need to resolve the future of Petar Ratkov, who is attracted by a potential move to Sevilla.

Their financial position also complicates matters after the arrival of Andrea Pinamonti.

That has allowed Leeds to make up considerable ground, with Lazio now seemingly losing momentum in the transfer race.

A temporary move with an option to buy could be particularly attractive for Leeds.

Harder remains only 21 and previously demonstrated considerable potential at Sporting, but his difficult spell with Leipzig means there would be an element of risk attached to a major permanent investment.

A loan would give Farke the opportunity to assess Harder in the Premier League before Leeds decide whether to commit significant money to a permanent transfer.

Leeds will now attempt to turn their advanced negotiations into an agreement with RB Leipzig before the transfer deadline.

The exact financial structure still needs to emerge, but a loan with an option to buy could provide Leeds with a relatively low-risk opportunity to add a talented young striker seeking regular football.