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Ermedin Demirovic makes Leeds transfer decision
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- Ermedin Demirovic makes Leeds transfer decision
Ermedin Demirovic has no interest in joining Leeds United in the closing stages of the transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.
The 28-year-old has featured highly on Daniel Farke's list of targets this summer, but looks increasingly likely to stay at Stuttgart beyond the transfer deadline on 1 September.
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This comes after the striker explained: "Leaving was never an option for me" in an interview at the clubs' pre-season training camp earlier this month.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Demirovic has been clear about where his future lies, and is now increasingly likely to stay at Stuttgart.
Leeds are not his only admirers, however, with Turkish giants Galatasaray also looking to lure him away from the Bundesliga, further complicated the Whites' pursuit.
As a result, Farke will likely be forced to look elsewhere for attacking additions before the window closes, as signing a new striker remains a priority.
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Could Leeds make a move to sign Ermedin Demirovic?
Football Insiderrevealed on 23 August that Leeds have retained their strong interest in singing Demirovic this summer, despite Stuttgart's reluctance to sell.
Following their qualification for this season's Champions League league phase, the Bundesliga outfit are determined to keep hold of their best players.
Meanwhile, the striker is happy to stay and help his side in UEFA's premier competition, making any move to Leeds or his other suitors highly unlikely.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Yeah, we expect Leeds now to look to add to their attacking options having let Joel Piroe leave to go to West Ham on loan.
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"Demirovic is a player that they have had a long-term interest in, but again, it's another difficult deal to do.
"He had a very good season last year with 16 goals in 43 games which helped them qualify for the Champions League, and the player himself is relishing that opportunity.
"There's been a lot of talk in Turkey that Galatasaray are very keen on the Bosnia international as well and are ready to offer him a huge deal to make the move to Turkey.
"So that would make it difficult for Leeds to compete financially as well, but it seems at the moment that Demirovic will stay at Stuttgart and he is part of their plans for the new season."
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Sources: Leeds 'prioritise' forward signing after exit deal agreed Leeds 'set sights' on signing Dutch international as Daniel Farke eyes 'ambitious' plan Which other strikers are on Leeds' radar?
Despite suffering a blow in their pursuit of Demirovic, Leeds remain confident of landing a new striker before the transfer window closes on 1 September.
A number of options both in the Premier League and abroad have been assessed, with plans set to accelerate after Leeds allowed Joel Piroe to join West Ham.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insiderlast month that Leeds have been keeping tabs on Burnley striker Zian Flemming as a top target.
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The Whites are keen to land a new forward to play alongside Dominic Calvert-Lewin , and were impressed by the 27-year-old's performances in the Premier League last season.
However, the Whites could be set to miss out on another key target given rival interest from clubs including Everton , Lille , and PSV Enindhoven.
