Leeds have reportedly told they have little to no chance of signing Gent attacker Jonathan David.
The Canada international scored an impressive 23 goals in all competitions for Gent this season.
He has previously been linked with Manchester United and Arsenal, who held initial talks with his agent Nick Mavromaras.
HLN, as cited by sportslens, claimed last month that French outfit Lille have already had a £23million bid plus bonuses rejected for David.
The report adds that Belgian outfit are holding out for nearer to €30m (£27m) for the 20-year-old.
De Witte is quoted as saying: “I know Jonathan myself as an exceptionally fair and sensible boy. He has a super mentality and attitude.
“A few weeks ago it still sounded loud that he only wants to go to the Bundesliga and now he necessarily wants to go to France… isn’t that really bizarre?
“As if Lille would be such a great step forward for Jonathan. Is one then thinking of the player’s career? The contacts were stopped this week, but other clubs are still interested. With much better proposals even. Including Leeds.”
However, French paper L’Equipe is convinced David will end up at Lille.
The Ligue 1 side last week sold Victor Osimhen to Napoli in a deal worth around €60m and now have David in their sights.
While they are still to meet Lille’s asking price for the player, the paper does expect some sort of compromise to be reached. That’s because they state David ‘only wants to join’ the northern French side.
Furthermore, they state the striker has no intention of moving to Premier League new boys Leeds, inspite of their bid.
The cold shoulder from David at least gives Leeds the freedom to move in the market.
The Whites have been linked with a plethora of players since securing promotion. They do, however, need a new striker to compete with 16-goal frontman Patrick Bamford.
Leeds chase Matty Longstaff
Leeds, meanwhile, are interested in Newcastle midfielder Matty Longstaff, according to reports.
Longstaff’s contract with the Magpies expires this summer. Despite knowing this for months, Newcastle have yet to negotiate a new deal with the 20-year-old.
Even though Longstaff is out of contract, it wouldn’t actually be a free signing. Leeds would have to pay a compensation fee to Newcastle due to his age.
Longstaff made his Newcastle debut this season and went on to make nine Premier League appearances, scoring two goals – both against Manchester United.
He also made six appearances in the cup, scoring once.
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