Leeds United praised after Tarik Muharemovic transfer as Sassuolo chief explains sale

Leeds United's signing of Tarik Muharemovic has received further backing after Sassuolo sporting director Francesco Palmieri admitted the club had no regrets over allowing the defender to move to Elland Road.

Muharemovic joined Leeds earlier this summer despite attracting strong interest from several Serie A clubs, including Inter Milan and Juventus, following an outstanding breakthrough campaign in Italy.

Although Sassuolo were reluctant to lose one of their brightest talents, Palmieri believes the transfer represented the right opportunity for both the player and the club.

Speaking about the club's summer business, Palmieri revealed Sassuolo were happy to let Muharemovic take the next step in his career.

"Muharemovic left, there was a great opportunity for the boy."

The sporting director acknowledged the defender's departure while discussing the club's wider transfer strategy and confirmed Sassuolo remain committed to developing young talent before allowing them to progress elsewhere.

Palmieri also praised the backing of the Squinzi family, insisting their long-term vision continues to provide stability for the Serie A club.

Palmieri believes Sassuolo's reputation as a stepping stone for elite players is something the club should embrace.

"This club has been a springboard for many."

The Italian outfit have built a strong reputation for developing players before selling them to Europe's biggest clubs, with the likes of Davide Frattesi and Manuel Locatelli following similar paths in recent years.

Muharemovic now joins that list after establishing himself as one of Serie A's standout young defenders during his first full top-flight campaign.

The Bosnia international also impressed at the World Cup, where he played a key role for his country after helping them qualify for the tournament.

Leeds moved quickly to secure Muharemovic despite competition from Inter Milan and Juventus, both of whom had monitored the 23-year-old before his move to England.

The centre-back arrives with a growing reputation thanks to his composure in possession, aerial dominance and ability to play in either a back four or back three.

Those qualities convinced Daniel Farke's side to act decisively, and Sassuolo's comments suggest the defender was viewed as one of the club's most valuable young assets before his departure.

Muharemovic will now look to establish himself at Leeds United as preparations continue for the new Premier League season. After earning praise in Italy, the defender will aim to prove he can replicate that form in English football and justify Leeds' decision to move ahead of several Serie A rivals.