Leeds preparing €30 million bid for Lazio star

The search for a centre-back continues

Leeds United are reportedly lining up a €30 million bid for Lazio centre-back Luiz Felipe, according to Italian site La Lazio Siamo Noi. It is believed there has been some contact between intermediary Lorenzo Tonetti, the right-hand man of Leeds chairman Andrea Radrizzani, and Lazio sporting director Igli Tare in the last few hours and a deal could be agreed soon. The player is one Lazio are willing to sell should an acceptable offer come in and it's thought that Leeds are ready to offer €30m, while Lazio are hoping for closer to the €40m mark. Leeds have already agreed a deal with Valencia for striker Rodrigo Moreno, with an official announcement expected soon, but still need a centre-back to replace Ben White. White spent last season on loan at Elland Road and returned to Brighton after the 19/20 season. The Seagulls are determined to keep hold of him this season and are close to tying him down to a new long-term contract, according to reports. Marcelo Bielsa has since turned his attention to Luiz Felipe, a 23-year-old Brazilian who made 30 appearances for Lazio last season. WhoScored note one of Felipe's traits is his tendency to play short passes, which will of course suit Bielsa's way of playing.