Leeds United’s £40m bid for Muharemović gathers pace

Leeds United have made a £40m verbal offer for Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemović, with Elland Road chiefs pushing hard to land their first major defensive signing of the summer. The 23-year-old Serie A centre-back is now the Whites’ priority target — and the club believe they can wrap up the deal before pre-season ends.

The 4th Official reported on 13 July 2026 that Leeds have jumped into pole position for Muharemović, with direct talks with Sassuolo set for next week. Two rival top-flight sides are still in the hunt, but the West Yorkshire club reckon they hold the upper hand after the player made it clear he wants a move to England. Leeds United sit 14th in the Premier League with 47 points from 38 games and a recent run of LWDWD. Sassuolo will demand a fee close to £40m, but the board have a shortlist of backups ready if the Italians overplay their hand.

How Tarik Muharemović matches Farke’s blueprint

Muharemović’s attributes fit a gaping hole in the Leeds backline. The 1.92m defender starred in Serie A last season, making 32 league appearances and scoring twice as Sassuolo finished 11th. His mix of aerial power and composure on the ball lets him play out from deep — a trait Farke’s system needs. Leeds have conceded 56 goals this season and trail Arsenal by 38 points in the title race.

The Bosnian also impressed at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he handled elite attackers in a Round of 32 clash against the USA. That tournament form shows he can cope with the Premier League’s intensity. If Sassuolo demand more than £35m, Leeds will walk away — but the club’s recruitment team see him as the right man to shore up their leaky defence before the new campaign kicks off.