Leeds United: Bologna eye Bellusci as relegated Empoli back out of full transfer

Bologna are among the clubs interested in signing Giuseppe Bellusci after Empoli's relegation from Serie A cast doubt over a permanent transfer from Leeds United.
The future of Leeds United's Giuseppe Bellusci remains unclear. PIC: Jonathan GawthorpeThe future of Leeds United's Giuseppe Bellusci remains unclear. PIC: Jonathan Gawthorpe
The future of Leeds United's Giuseppe Bellusci remains unclear. PIC: Jonathan Gawthorpe

Bellusci was lined up to join Empoli on a full-time basis this summer after a year on loan in Italy but Empoli are not expected to pursue his signature following the club’s descent into Serie B.

Their relegation from the Italian top flight was confirmed by a 2-1 defeat to Palermo nine days ago. That result allowed Crotone to escape the drop with a 3-1 win over Lazio. Bellusci played 33 times for Empoli but the centre-back is unsure of his next move with a year left on his contract at Leeds.

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United and former head coach Garry Monk ruled him surplus to requirements ahead of this season but Monk resigned from his job last month, three days before Empoli were relegated.

Bologna, who finished 15th in Serie A, could now look to strike a deal which keeps Bellusci in Italy next season. Bellusci signed for Leeds on a four-year deal from Catania in August 2014 but has not featured since a 3-2 win over Reading at Elland Road in April 2016.

Leeds replaced him last summer by recruiting Kyle Bartley on loan from Swansea City and Pontus Jansson on a temporary deal from Torino. Jansson will complete a permanent switch to Leeds on July 1.

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