Leeds in transfer talks to sign Dinamo Zagreb defender Josko Gvardiol in £18m deal after missing out on Ben White

LEEDS United are in talks with Dinamo Zagreb about signing teenage defender Josko Gvardiol in a deal worth £18million, according to reports.

Marcelo Bielsa’s side had the meanest defence in the Championship last season, conceding just 35 goals.

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Gvardiol has been making a name for himself in Europe[/caption]

But respected Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed the Chilean is looking to strenghten still by adding the Croatian youngster.

He tweeted: “Leeds are in talks with Dinamo Zagreb to sign Josko Gvardiol.

“Price tag around €20m for the Croatian centre back.”

Leeds plan on continuing their summer spending as they return to the Premier League after 16 years away.

Gvardiol would be joining German international defender Robin Koch, who the Whites signed from SC Freiburg last week.

The 18-year-old is already making a name for himself in Europe, with Champions League winners Bayern Munich making an enquiry about the starlet in May.

As well as being a centre-back, Gvardiol can also play at left-back, leading Zagreb to slap a €20million price tag on the future star.

He already has Champions League experience and featured in his side’s last match in the competition, in their penalty shoot-out win over Cluj.

Leeds set their sights on Gvardiol after missing out on target Ben White.

Brighton put an end to any hope of White leaving for Elland Road by making it clear that they plan to have him at the Amex next season.

Chief executive Paul Barber said: “We are looking forward to seeing Ben wearing Brighton colours next season.” 

Leeds have shown they mean business in this summer’s transfer market and just last week signed Rodrigo from Valencia, and Sam Greenwood from Arsenal, with no signs of the spending stopping any time soon.