Leeds United Closing in on Melvin Bard Loan

Leeds United are set for a frantic finish to deadline day, closing in on a deal for Nice defender Melvin Bard while their attacking options hang in the balance.

The Championship club are finalising an initial loan for the 25-year-old left-back, with an option to buy at the end of the season. Leeds will pay Nice around one million euros for the loan, with the option to make the move permanent for a further five million euros next summer if they choose.

Bard is travelling to Elland Road on deadline day to undergo his medical, with Leeds pushing to get the move over the line before the window shuts.

Defensive Reinforcement

For Daniel Farke, it is a badly needed reinforcement. Gabriel Gudmundsson is currently the only natural left-sided full-back in his squad, leaving the Leeds manager exposed in a key area as the season wears on. Bard’s arrival would give Leeds depth and a more balanced back line, especially with the physical demands of a promotion push.

Forward Line Uncertainty

While the defence looks set to be bolstered, the forward line is far less settled.

Willy Gnonto is in Florence completing his move to Fiorentina, a return to Serie A that has been in the works across the window. The Italian’s switch is an initial loan, but Leeds had made it clear it would only go ahead once they had a replacement lined up.

That plan has taken a hit.

Leeds moved for Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk, only to see Tottenham step in and hijack the deal. With Spurs winning that particular race, Leeds are left scrambling for attacking cover as Gnonto edges closer to the exit.

So Bard looks likely to arrive. Gnonto looks likely to go. The question now is whether Leeds can find the firepower to match their defensive reshuffle before the window slams shut.