Leeds United are again weighing a January transfer for Lyon attacking midfielder Pavel Šulc after the player clarified why a summer move fell through. The 25-year-old Czech international confirmed clubs, including Leeds, made contact but could not meet Lyon's asking price.
Šulc said he expected to leave the French club. "A move was certainly on the cards," he explained. "But I told the club officials to give me something concrete. I didn't want to know just because a club were making inquiries."
July reports indicated Lyon's demand was around €25 million, a figure that proved prohibitive. Transfermarkt currently lists Šulc's market value at €20 million. With his contract running until June 2029, Lyon retains considerable leverage in any negotiation.
Šulc's profile and production
Šulc scored 14 Ligue 1 goals in his debut season at Lyon, finishing the 2025-26 campaign with 25 direct goal involvements across all competitions. He has started the new season more quietly, registering three assists after some fitness issues. The player himself has suggested his age and Czech nationality, rather than a more marketable Portuguese passport, may have affected his perceived value and resale potential.
Leeds, currently fifth in the Premier League standings with 16 points from 8 games, are assessing their squad needs. Their recent form includes a 4-1 win over Newcastle but also a goalless draw with Crystal Palace last weekend. The team's overall stats show a need for more consistent creative output in the final third, which Šulc could potentially address. The need for additional creative options in the second half of the season is a consideration ahead of a tough run of fixtures, starting with a trip to second-placed Arsenal on Saturday, October 10th.
The January calculation
For Leeds, the decision hinges on whether Šulc's proven attacking output justifies meeting Lyon's valuation, likely still close to €25 million. The club must balance the immediate need for a creative spark against the financial prudence of not overpaying for a 25-year-old with a limited resale profile. A strict approach protects the club's finances but could carry a cost if Šulc becomes central to their plans and another target is not secured. The club's recruitment team will also be mindful of the current injuries within the squad and how a new signing would fit into the existing group.
The January window will reveal if either club's position has shifted. Leeds face Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, October 10th, in a match that will test their credentials against a direct rival near the top of the table.
More detail at The 4th Official
