Leeds United pushing to beat rivals to Tarik Muharemović transfer

Leeds United are stepping up their pursuit of Tarik Muharemović as Daniel Farke looks to strengthen his defence before the new Premier League season.

The Sassuolo centre-back has attracted interest from several English clubs, but Leeds are now believed to be leading the race ahead of Sunderland and Bournemouth, with the coming days expected to be decisive.

Muharemović has emerged as one of the most sought-after young defenders in Italy after an impressive campaign with Sassuolo.

Sunderland identified the Bosnia and Herzegovina international as a priority target earlier this month, while Bournemouth have also monitored his progress. However, reports in Italy now suggest Leeds have accelerated negotiations and are currently in the strongest position to complete a deal.

Juventus had also shown interest in bringing the 23-year-old back to Turin, but their pursuit has cooled, leaving the Premier League clubs with a clearer path.

Leeds are now pressing to finalise an agreement before rival bids gather momentum.

According to reports in Italy, Leeds are prepared to make a significant financial commitment to secure Muharemović's signature.

The Whites are reportedly willing to offer a package worth €40 million to Sassuolo, while the defender would be handed a contract running until 2031, worth around €3.5 million per season.

If completed, it would comfortably rank among the biggest transfers in Leeds' history and underline the club's ambition following their return to the Premier League.

Sassuolo remain in a strong negotiating position, with Muharemović tied to a long-term contract, but Leeds appear increasingly confident of reaching an agreement.

Although Juventus have dropped back in the race, they have not lost interest entirely.

The Serie A giants negotiated a 50% sell-on clause when Muharemović left the club, meaning they would receive a substantial share of any transfer fee if Leeds complete the deal.

That gives Juventus every reason to keep a close eye on negotiations, even if they are no longer expected to compete for the defender's signature.

The coming days are expected to be crucial as Leeds look to turn their interest into a formal agreement. With Juventus no longer actively pursuing the defender, the Whites have a clear opportunity to move ahead of Sunderland and Bournemouth, although Sassuolo are unlikely to lower their demands while interest remains strong.

Would Tarik Muharemović be worth a club-record investment for Leeds United, or is €40 million too much for the Sassuolo defender?