Credit: Imago
Sat 23 August 2025 12:50, UK
Leeds United are leading the race for Strasbourg winger Dilane Bakwa, as they look to sign another forward before the transfer window closes.
Noah Okafor’s signing was confirmed on Thursday, after a deal worth around £17.3million was agreed with AC Milan.
And Leeds have signed Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who agreed to join on a free transfer after leaving Everton at the end of the season.
But Daniel Farke is still looking to sign a new forward and has identified Bakwa, following former target Igor Paixao’s decision to join Marseille.
Leeds got their Premier League season off to a great start (Credit: Imago)Leeds United ready £30m deal to sign Dilane Bakwa
Leeds have strengthened considerably in the transfer window, signing nine players who are expected to bolster the squad across the pitch.
But there still appears to be a place left for a new winger, with Farke looking to cope with the loss of Manor Solomon, who returned to Tottenham at the end of the season.
The 26-year-old scored 10 goals and provided 12 assists in the Championship last season, but does not look likely to return to Elland Road in the window’s remaining week.
Bakwa joined Strasbourg in 2023 from Bordeaux.The 22-year-old is also a regular for France under-21s, making his debut in 2024.
Instead, Leeds will look to sign Bakwa, who kicked off his Ligue 1 season for Strasbourg with an assist against FC Metz on the opening day.
Sacha Tavolieri reported on 23 August that the Premier League club are now leading the race for the winger, and the 49ers are ready to meet Strasbourg’s valuation of around £30.3m.
Nottingham Forest are also interested in Bakwa and remain a possibility for the 22-year-old, but Leeds are now the likelier destination.
🟡🏴 Leeds United now leading the race for Dilane Bakwa. #LUFC are now ready to meet Racing Strasbourg expectations which around €35M to make a deal happen. #NFFC has not left but the newly promoted are now ahead.
⏳ Wait&See… #mercato #RCSA pic.twitter.com/7ulh4IUQx2
— Sacha Tavolieri (@sachatavolieri) August 23, 2025
View Tweet
Dilane Bakwa would give Leeds United an exciting option
Bakwa predominantly featured on the right of the midfield for Strasbourg last season, but is also capable of playing on the left.
He scored six goals and provided nine assists in Ligue 1, establishing himself among the league’s most exciting young wingers.
Dilane BakwaLigue 1 2024/25 (per 90)Crosses5.49Take-ons attempted4.72Carries into final third2.43Shot-creating actions3.87Stats via FBref
Bakwa is a take-on machine, always looking to run at his defender and often beating him to deliver dangerous crosses into the box.
The France youth international is a different option to Paixao, often preferring to hug the touchline when receiving the ball, instead of drifting inside like the Brazilian.
But when in the box, Bakwa can be just as deadly. The Premier League would likely be a big step-up for the 22-year-old, but there is no doubting his talent.
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