Stefano Bonacini has revealed that Leeds United have a deadline of June 30th to complete a deal for Jerry Mbakogu.
Leeds have been in discussions with Capri for some time now, with a view to bringing Mbakogu to Elland Road in a £3.5m deal.
However, Leeds are reportedly beginning to stall on a deal and chase other targets, despite securing an option with Capri to sign Mbakogu.
Bonacini, Capri’s president, has delivered further details of Leeds’ agreement with the Serie B outfit, revealing a deadline is set on the potential deal.
As reported by the Yorkshire Evening Post, he told Italian broadcaster TVqui: “We have signed a pre-contract with Leeds and by end of the 30th June we will have to close it.
“Unless there are some unexpected traps, he will play there next season.”
Mbakogu was far from prolific for Capri during the 2017/18 campaign, with his goalscoring record in the Italian second division unconvincing.
The 25-year-old scored six goals and registered three assists in Serie B, only managing to add a further two goals in the Italian cup competitions.
Pressure is on Andrea Radrizzani, Leeds’ owner, to address recruitment issues, which have hindered the Whites in the last 12 months.
Last summer, Leeds lost 30-goal striker Chris Wood to Burnley, with his replacements, Caleb Ekuban, Pierre-Michel Lasogga and Jay-Roy Grot, only managing 12 Championship goals between them.
The Verdict
Leeds have had a deal agreed for Mbakogu for some time now, but appear to be getting cold feet with the deadline approaching.
Radrizzani is under pressure to deliver this summer after a disappointing year, which could be one reason behind Mbakogu’s deal stalling.
There is no doubt that Leeds need better than an 8-goal, Serie B striker next season.
It’ll be interesting to see if Leeds eventually take up the option to sign the striker.
Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!