Leeds boss Jesse Marsch wants to add to USA contingent with Weston McKennie transfer but Juventus star will cost £30m
LEEDS are haggling with Juventus over a fee to sign USA star Weston McKennie.
Whites boss Jesse Marsch wants to land his countryman — but Leeds’ offer of £20million plus add-ons is short of Juve’s £30m valuation.
The midfielder, 24, is understood to have given the green light to a move, which would see him link up with his US team-mates Tyler Adams and Brenden Aaronson.
Leeds are optimistic they can strike a deal for World Cup star McKennie, who has also caught the eye of Arsenal and Aston Villa.
The midfielder joined Juventus on loan from Schalke in 2020 until his move became permanent a year later.
McKennie has since amassed a total of 13 goals and five assists in 96 appearances across all competitions.
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The Whites are set to close the door on Leicester’s move for £20m-rated winger Jack Harrison, 26.
The Foxes are keen on the Elland Road ace, who is out of contract at the end of next season and is yet to pledge his future to the club.
But Marsch has no plans to lose Harrison, who joined on a permanent basis 18 months ago in an £11m deal from Manchester City after three seasons on loan.
The Leeds boss said: “He’s an important guy for us and it’s clear we need him.”
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Marsch insists defender Cody Drameh, 21, still has a Leeds future despite joining Championship outfit Luton on loan.
He said: “He’ll benefit from going out to a team who are challenging for promotion.”