Leeds United open talks for Pavel Šulc as Lyon demand €25m

Leeds United have intensified their pursuit of Lyon midfielder Pavel Šulc, with negotiations now underway as Daniel Farke looks to strengthen his squad before the start of the new Premier League season.

According to an exclusive report from Foot Mercato, Leeds have stepped up their efforts in recent days and are now in direct talks with the Ligue 1 club. However, the two sides have yet to reach an agreement, with Lyon's valuation emerging as the main obstacle.

The French club are reportedly seeking around €25 million for the Czech international, whose future has come into focus amid Lyon's ongoing financial pressures.

Lyon remain under scrutiny from French football's financial regulator, the DNCG, and further player sales could be required before the transfer window closes.

Šulc has emerged as one of the club's most valuable assets after an outstanding debut campaign following his move from Viktoria Plzeň last summer.

Leeds have monitored the 25-year-old for some time, having also been linked with him in previous transfer windows, but they now appear to be leading the race after opening formal discussions.

The midfielder has also attracted interest from Nottingham Forest, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa, although no rival club is currently reported to have advanced negotiations as far as Leeds.

Despite the financial uncertainty surrounding the club, Lyon would prefer to keep Šulc if possible.

The attacking midfielder enjoyed an excellent 2025/26 campaign, contributing 15 goals and 10 assists in 42 appearances across all competitions to establish himself as one of Paulo Fonseca's most influential players.

Lyon's head coach is believed to view Šulc as indispensable, particularly with the club preparing for a crucial UEFA Champions League third qualifying round tie in early August. That could encourage the French side to delay any transfer until after those fixtures, provided their financial position allows them to do so.

For Leeds, however, the opportunity to sign a proven creative midfielder may be too good to ignore. If they are prepared to meet Lyon's asking price, they could put themselves in a strong position to complete one of their most significant signings of the summer.

Negotiations between Leeds and Lyon are expected to continue over the coming days as both clubs attempt to bridge the gap in valuation. Lyon's financial situation could ultimately influence the outcome, although the French side may also try to delay any sale until after their Champions League qualifying commitments. Leeds, meanwhile, appear determined to stay at the front of the queue as they look to bolster Daniel Farke's midfield options.

Would Pavel Šulc be the creative signing Leeds United need for their Premier League return, or should Daniel Farke target a different midfield profile this summer?