The transfer window is heating up. Leeds United are pushing hard to wrap up their first major defensive signing of the summer, with Elland Road chiefs launching a formal verbal contract proposal to a highly rated Serie A star.

Leeds United close in on major defensive target this summer

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on X, the West Yorkshire club have jumped into pole position for the Bosnian international centre-back Tarik Muharemović. It is a bold move. They want the deal finalised next week. Two rival top-flight teams are still breathing down their necks, but Leeds United are confident they can cross the finishing line before anyone else has a chance to hijack the transfer.

Direct club-to-club talks with Italian side Sassuolo are already on the calendar to thrash out the financial structure. Crucially, the player wants the move to England. That gives Leeds a massive advantage in these negotiations.

Why do the club need this defensive reinforcement?

The 23-year-old defender had a brilliant breakthrough year in Italy. He clocked up 32 league appearances during the recent 2025/26 Serie A campaign, even chipping in with two vital goals. He is a proper unit. He is 1.92 metres tall. The towering centre-half commands his penalty box with real authority and handles physical forwards without breaking a sweat.

He offers a rare combination of brute strength and composure on the ball. Muharemović can pick a pass from deep, making him the perfect fit for the current tactical system. Then there is his recent international form. He put in some excellent displays at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, proving he can cope with elite attackers on the biggest stage.

This looks like a brilliant piece of business. The current squad desperately lacks a tall, progressive defender who can dominate aerial duels and instantly launch quick counter-attacks.

The European media are hinting at a price tag close to £40m. That is steep. A fee of around £30 million feels like the absolute limit for where he is in his development. Going over £35 million carries too much financial risk, and the recruitment team must stay disciplined. If Sassuolo demand an unrealistic fee, Leeds United should look elsewhere. The board have a clear shortlist of backup options ready. Getting this signature secured before pre-season ends gives the manager a massive asset for a tough Premier League campaign. Decisive action is needed now.