Leeds United submit 'interesting' player proposal as Victor Orta chases in-demand European star

The Whites and their Premier League rivals have until 11pm on Monday, February 1, to finalise any potential incomings and outgoings ahead of the second half of the season.

It remains to be seen whether Marcelo Bielsa will strengthen his squad after some deep spending in the summer after ending their 16-year top-flight absence.

As always, we’re sharing the latest news and gossip from around the web – so scroll down to see what features:

Newcastle United are one of a number of clubs interested in Independiente youngster Alan Velasco, who has a £17.5million release clause. (El Intransigente via Sport Witness)

Steve Bruce is determined to keep Ciaran Clark amid reported interest from Crystal Palace. Negotiations over a new contract have already begun. (The Athletic)

Bruce will snub any approaches for Derby County-linked Matty Longstaff after the midfielder started the Magpies’ last three games. (Daily Mirror via HITC)

Leeds United are showing concrete interest in Mainz forward Jean-Philippe Mateta, who is being tracked by Victor Orta and his scouting team. (Football Insider)

The Whites continue to keep tabs on Fiorentina midfielder Erick Pulgar, with one Italian report claiming “‘Leeds’ proposal is interesting”. (La Nazione via Sport Witness)

January offers for Premier League-linked trio Emi Buendia, Max Aarons and Todd Cantwell will be ignored by Norwich City as they eye an immediate return to the top-flight. (Sky Sports)

Crystal Palace are unlikely to move for QPR goalkeeper Seny Dieng, paving the way for Arsenal and Leeds in their reported pursuit. (South London Press)

Palace are keen to sign Sheffield United midfielder John Lundstram but are likely to wait until his contract expires this summer, rather than make a move this month. (The Sun via HITC)

West Ham and Crystal Palace have joined Burnley in the race for Derby County star Jason Knight. All three are serious about signing the midfielder. (Irish Mirror)

Manchester United would be willing to loan Sergio Romero to Brighton & Hove Albion, though Dan James is likely to stay at Old Trafford. (Alex Crook - TalkSPORT)

Former defender Adam Virgo has tipped Shane Duffy to reunite with Chris Hughton at Nottingham Forest after struggling during his loan spell at Celtic. (Scottish Sun)