Leeds United Submit a wagering Bid for Strasbourg Captain Habib Diarra Which Have Left Fans Stunned
Leeds United have sent shockwaves through the football world by submitting a bold €26 million (£21.9m) bid for RC Strasbourg’s captain, Habib Diarra, as they aim to bolster their squad for the Premier League campaign. The 21-year-old Senegalese international, who has also attracted interest from several English and German clubs, is seen as a key target for Daniel Farke’s side following their promotion from the Championship. The audacious offer, reported by French outlet L’Equipe, has left Leeds fans stunned and buzzing with excitement as the club signals its ambition to compete in the top flight.
Diarra, a versatile box-to-box midfielder, has been a standout performer for Strasbourg, captaining the side under former Hull City manager Liam Rosenior. His leadership, coupled with four goals and five assists in 30 Ligue 1 appearances last season, helped Strasbourg secure Conference League qualification. With over 100 appearances for the club since graduating from their academy, Diarra’s blend of experience, dynamism, and versatility makes him a prime target for Leeds, who are eager to add Premier League-ready talent to their squad. His ability to operate in central midfield or as an attacking playmaker has also drawn comparisons to some of the game’s most exciting young talents.
The €26m bid represents a significant statement of intent from Leeds’ ownership, the 49ers Enterprises, who are backing Farke to build a squad capable of surviving and thriving in the Premier League. However, Strasbourg, owned by BlueCo, are not rushing to accept the offer, as they weigh interest from other clubs, including Premier League sides like West Ham, Everton, and Brighton, as well as German outfits. Diarra’s contract, which runs until 2028, gives Strasbourg leverage, and they may hold out for a higher fee, potentially sparking a bidding war.
For Leeds fans, the news has sparked a mix of disbelief and optimism. Social media platforms, particularly X, have been flooded with reactions, with supporters hailing the club’s ambition while others question whether the young midfielder is worth the hefty price tag. One fan posted, “€26m for Diarra? That’s massive for us! Farke’s cooking something special.” Another noted, “Huge move, but losing him to AFCON could hurt.” Indeed, Diarra’s international commitments with Senegal could see him miss key winter fixtures, a factor Leeds must consider.
Farke’s strategy appears clear: add proven top-flight quality to a midfield lacking Premier League experience, with players like Ilia Gruev and Ao Tanaka yet to be tested at this level. Diarra’s arrival could provide competition for Brenden Aaronson and inject dynamism into the engine room. As Strasbourg deliberate and rival clubs circle, Leeds face a nervous wait to see if their opening gambit will secure the signature of one of Ligue 1’s brightest prospects. This move underscores Leeds’ determination to make a mark, but the outcome remains uncertain in a competitive transfer market.
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