Leeds United move to meet Jozefzoon valuation as battle for winger hots up

Florian Jozefzoon (left) playing against Leeds United at Griffin Park.

Leeds United are set to match Brentford's asking price for Florian Jozefzoon and take on Derby County for the winger's signature.

The Elland Road club are willing to meet Jozefzoon’s valuation of around Â£3m and held fresh talks with Brentford last night following a rival bid earlier in the week.

Brentford manager Dean Smith confirmed on Tuesday night that a formal offer for Jozefzoon - believed to be from Derby - had been accepted by the board at Griffin Park.

The approach left Leeds under pressure to move on a target approved by head coach Marcelo Bielsa but United are understood to be close to agreeing a deal of their own, clearing the way for Jozefzoon to discuss personal terms.

West Bromwich Albion are also interested in Jozefzoon, who is set to depart Griffin Park after 18 months with Brentford.

The West London side brought him to England from PSV Eindhoven in January 2017 and he has played almost 60 times in the Championship, delivering seven goals and seven assists last season.

Leeds are fighting to add him to their squad having made only two signings since the transfer window opened at the beginning of May.

Goalkeeper Jamal Blackman and midfielder Lewis Baker, both of whom arrived on season-long loans from Chelsea, are expected to feature for the first time in tonight’s friendly at York City.

Meanwhile, academy player Alex Machuca departed Elland Road this morning for a season-long loan at Spanish third division club Burgos.