Leeds United are stepping up their search for defensive reinforcements following the departure of Pascal Struijk, with the club now closing in on an experienced international defender as Daniel Farke continues reshaping his squad for the Premier League.
Struijk’s move to Brighton left Leeds needing at least one new centre-back before the transfer window closes. Reports suggest the Dutch defender was determined to complete the transfer, leaving Leeds with limited room to negotiate a higher fee and forcing the recruitment team to move quickly in the market.
While the Whites continue to pursue left-footed defenders to fill the void left by Struijk, Wolves defender Ladislav Krejci remains one of the club’s priority targets. However, Leeds are also determined to add another experienced centre-back, and attention has now turned firmly towards Borussia Monchengladbach’s Nico Elvedi.
The Switzerland international has emerged as one of Daniel Farke’s preferred options. The Leeds boss knows Elvedi well from their time together at Borussia Monchengladbach and believes the defender has the qualities needed to strengthen Leeds’ back line immediately.
Although Elvedi is currently focused on Switzerland’s World Cup knockout campaign, discussions over his club future have continued behind the scenes. The 29-year-old is understood to be open to testing himself in the Premier League, with Elland Road viewed as an attractive destination.
Borussia Monchengladbach initially rejected Leeds’ opening offer, believed to be just over £7 million, as they hoped to secure a larger transfer fee for one of their most experienced defenders. However, negotiations have progressed in recent days, and sources indicate that Leeds are now edging closer to reaching an agreement.
A package worth around £8.5 million is expected to satisfy the Bundesliga side, who recognise that convincing Elvedi to remain in Germany could prove difficult if the player continues pushing for the move.
Talks between the clubs remain ongoing, with Leeds eager to complete the transfer before rival interest intensifies. Championship side Coventry City have also been credited with monitoring the Swiss international, adding further urgency to Leeds’ efforts to finalise the deal.
Elvedi would not be a direct replacement for Pascal Struijk due to their differing profiles. Unlike the departed Dutchman, Elvedi is naturally right-footed, but his experience and tactical flexibility make him a valuable addition to Farke’s squad.
Standing at 6ft 2in, Elvedi brings more than a decade of top-level football experience. He is recognised for his composure under pressure, intelligent positioning and ability to play out from the back. Last season he recorded an impressive 93 percent pass completion rate while also registering 325 clearances, highlighting both his technical quality and defensive reliability.
His versatility is another key reason Leeds are pursuing the defender. Elvedi is capable of operating in multiple defensive roles, whether in a traditional back four or as part of a three-man defence, giving Daniel Farke greater tactical flexibility throughout the season.
With Leeds preparing for the demands of Premier League football, adding a player with Elvedi’s experience, leadership and consistency could prove to be an important piece of the club’s summer rebuild. If negotiations continue to progress positively, the Swiss international could soon become the latest arrival at Elland Road as Farke strengthens his defensive options ahead of the new campaign.
