Leeds United ’join’ Brighton and Southampton in race for La Liga defender

Leeds United have been named as one of three Premier League teams that have expressed interest in Cadiz CF’s Momo Mbaye, according to Sport Witness.

The centre-back began his senior career in Uruguay before enjoying a successful loan spell with Cadiz B during the 2017-18 season. Mbaye then joined Watford’s youth team but failed to make an impact on his first stint in England and rejoined Cadiz on a permanent deal a year later.

The Senegalese defender has since spent most of his time with the Spanish club playing for the B team but made his La Liga debut earlier this season. He has since made only two more starts but his impressive performances have raised eyebrows and caught the attention of a number of clubs.

With Leeds, Brighton & Hove Albion and Southampton said to be monitoring Mbaye, Cadiz have already begun to work on extending his contract in a bid to keep him in Spain further than his current deal’s expiry in 2024. It is unclear how much the Whites would need to lure the 24-year-old to the Premier League, however the promise of first team football may help. Jesse Marsch’s team have struggled this season and could look to provide the likes of Robin Koch and Liam Cooper with more competition at the back.

However, Leeds’ league status could play a part in Mbaye’s move to England. If they were to suffer relegation this season then they could fall behind in the race, while Southampton are currently among the favourites to drop down to the Championship next summer.

Brighton may have the advantage currently, especially given their brilliant track record with foreign talent. The Seagulls have recruited the likes of Moises Caicedo, Alexis Mac Allister and Yves Bissouma in recent years and have done a good job in developing their lesser-known stars.