According to Fabrizio Romano, Marseille have accepted a bid from Leeds United for Bamba Dieng. The bid comes to just under £9 million including add-ons, and provides much-needed depth to the striking options available to Jesse Marsch at Thorp Arch. This comes after deals for Cody Gakpo and Hwang Hee-Chan fell through, in spite of leading the race.
Bid ‘Has Been Accepted’ for Bamba Dieng
Who is Bamba Dieng?
Bamba Dieng is a Senegalese striker. At the age of 22, he already has an Africa Cup of Nations winner’s medal for his place in the Senegalese squad at the tournament, with seven senior goals in Ligue 1 already. This is a clear sign of the player’s promise and space for development.
At Elland Road, it is likely that the forward would fill a backup role for at least the first few weeks or months. Depending on injuries, there is a good chance that the forward would get minutes under Jesse Marsch, following the same pathway as Luis Sinisterra and Joe Gelhardt with gradual introductions to the squad.
Why are Leeds United After Bamba Dieng?
Jesse Marsch’s squad is relatively thin on the ground up front. Rodrigo plays more as an attacking midfielder, and with Patrick Bamford and Joe Gelhardt repeatedly suffering injuries there is a risk of running out of players at the top of the pitch. As this bid has been accepted, it is more likely that Leeds United will have a recognised number nine on the pitch throughout the season, rather than resorting to Dan James playing out of position. This was a significant problem last season and is one that Dieng could resolve.
Leeds are closing in on Bamba Dieng deal after Gakpo deal collapsed. It’s permanent transfer, not a loan — he is now set to agree personal terms and join Leeds. 🚨⚪️ #DeadlineDay
Dan James could leave before the end of the window, also Fulham are keen on signing him. pic.twitter.com/waqNMKEl7P
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 1, 2022
Would This Conclude Leeds United’s Business?
In all likelihood, this would be the last piece of business Victor Orta and the rest of the board at Elland Road complete in this window. Where left-back is a role that concerns fans, the board has less of an inclination for filling this position. There are currently no significant links between Leeds United and any left-back options on deadline day.
