Gamba Osaka’s president, Takashi Yamauchi, is preparing himself for a bid for in-demand midfielder, Yosuke Ideguchi, according to Japanese news outlet, Nikkan Sports.  

Reports emerged earlier this week confirming that Leeds United were interested in signing Ideguchi, and it is believed that the Sky Bet Championship club are looking to secure a deal for the January transfer window.

Ideguchi is a Japanese international midfielder at the age of just 21, and has picked up four caps for his country, scoring one goal in the process.

The 21-year-old has also made an impact for his club side, featuring on 29 occasions for Gamba Osaka in 2017, scoring three goals and adding nine assists across all competitions.

Victor Orta announced last week that Leeds were working on a “big surprise from Asia,” which is believed to be Ideguchi.

Yamauchi, Gamba Osaka’s president, confirmed to the Japanese media: “The offer is definitely coming.”

Leeds will face an anxious wait over Ideguchi, as they learn if they can get the necessary work permit for the midfielder to arrive at Elland Road during the January transfer window.

Thomas Christiansen already has a number of midfield options available to him, including Eunan O’Kane, Mateusz Klich, Kalvin Phillips and Ronaldo Vieira.

The Verdict

Links between Leeds and Ideguchi are building momentum as the week goes on, and it would be no surprise to hear some official developments in the coming weeks.

Whilst Leeds and Christiansen have a number of options available to them in central midfield, the addition of another international could prove to be a shrewd piece of business.

Leeds are a club on the rise at this moment in time, and their recruitment under Orta, Christiansen and Andrea Radrizzani has so far been excellent - leaving the club's supporters confident that Ideguchi could have a positive impact.

Leeds fans…. Let us know your thoughts!