Reds and Arsenal face battle for Diogo Leite deal

Leite has emerged as one of Europe’s hottest prospects since breaking onto the scene with Porto B.

And his performances in the UEFA Youth League last season turned the heads of scouts from a cluster of Premier League big boys.

German magazine Kicker indicate Liverpool have set their sights on Leite as they look to continue their summer spending.

While Arsenal, as well as Manchester City, have shown interest in prising him away from Porto ahead of the oncoming season too.

Buying Leite from Porto will not come at a considerable cost due to the relatively modest £13.4m (€15m) release clause written into his contract.

However, Liverpool, Arsenal and City have now seen another side enter the fray to secure the highly-rated 19-year-old’s signature.

Kicker have followed up claims that Borussia Monchengladbach are keen on Leite and confirmed the Bundesliga outfit’s desire to get him on-board.

Gladbach are said to have identified Leite as the man to bolster their defence following Jannik Vestergaard’s move to Southampton.

A swoop for the centre-back is apparently “underway” after interest in Barcelona’s Marlon was cooled.

Liverpool, Arsenal and City will therefore have to act fast if they are to add Leite to their ranks for the 2018-19 campaign.

Leite is unlikely to be in contention for a starting spot straight away if he heads for Anfield this summer.

Source: Daily Express

This story has been reproduced from the media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.