Leeds United appear to have been beaten in their pursuit of Alvaro Negredo, according to some recent reports coming out of Spain.

Spanish media outlet AS are reporting that Valencia striker Alvaro Negredo is heading to Besiktas to complete a permanent transfer.

Negredo spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough, scoring ten goals in 40 appearances as Boro were relegated from the Premier League.

His future at Valencia looks bleak and he has been searching for a transfer this summer.

Leeds United and Swansea City were both reportedly set to offer him a route back into English football but Besiktas are now poised to win the race for the target man.

The 21-cap Spain international has had an illustrious career, representing the likes of Sevilla and Manchester City.

In his trophy cabinet, the highly decorated veteran forward has a Euro 2012 title as well as many domestic honours, including a Copa del Rey and a Premier League title.

Leeds United were eyeing the 31-year-old as they aimed to provide competition up front for last season's top scorer Chris Wood.

However, Besiktas are now set to sign Negredo.

The Turkish giants won the Turkish Super Lig last season and are able to offer the Spaniard Champions League football.

The Verdict

If Leeds had managed to sign Alvaro Negredo, that would have been a major coup.

However, it was always unlikely to be completed so Leeds need to shrug this one off and move on.

They currently have Chris Wood up front and will be hoping that either Marcus Antonsson has a much better second year or that Caleb Ekuban takes to English football quickly to operate as the back-up striker choice.

Leeds fans - are you disappointed at missing out on Negredo? Let us know below...