Leeds United’s bid to sign Japanese midfielder Yosuke Ideguchi is under threat of ambush from Belgian side Sint Truiden, according to Sankei Sports.
The Japanese sports newspaper commonly known as Sanspo claim on their website that the top flight Belgian side are lining up a bid for the Gamba Osaka player.
The chairman of the Japanese side confirmed last month that Leeds were set to make an imminent bid for Ideguchi, who confirmed that he was looking to secure a move abroad.
Sports Nippon had reported that Leeds were willing to meet the £700,000 release clause in the 21-year-old’s contract, although it would now appear they have serious competition for the Japanese international.
The youngster only made his debut for his country back in June, but has already scored once in his four international appearances.
On the domestic stage, he has made 33 appearances for his club across all competitions this season, scoring five goals and chipping in with nine assists.
Good move for Leeds?
Any Leeds fan who will have watched the video clip of Ideguchi’s sensational goal for Japan in their World Cup qualifier win against Australia at the end of August will be excited about the potential of a rising star of Asian football. A central midfielder who creates and scores goals, Ideguchi clearly has pedigree and a reported release clause of £700,000 is an absolute bargain for an ambitious Championship club. However, it is a deal that should be approached with a degree of trepidation. Japanese players have a mixed record in English football. For every Shinji Okazaki, there is a Shinji Kagawa, who was regarded as a massive coup when signed by Manchester United but could barely get out of first gear. Leeds are looking to expand their reach across Asia and the signing of one of Japan’s most promising youngsters would give them great exposure.
This Is Futbol rating: 6/10
Likely to happen?
It appears Leeds have done a lot of groundwork for this deal and are in the driving seat, despite the fresh competition. Reports from Japan have said it is “highly likely” that Ideguchi will sign, with Gamba Osaka chairman Takashi Yamauchi going public to confirm that Leeds will “definitely” table a bid for Ideguchi. Moreover, Orta has admitted that United are working on signing a player from Asia. Nevertheless, news of strong Sint Truiden interest will create nervousness among the Elland Road top brass that they can push through this deal.
This Is Futbol rating: 8/10