Leeds United have already enjoyed a fruitful start to the January transfer window, welcoming enforcements up front and in defence.

The recent signings of Max Wober and Georginio Rutter both represented large outlays, which could suggest Victor Orta might slow down in his acquisitions.

However, with recent reports from Fabrizio Romano that have emerged, it suggests that despite stumbling somewhat in their pursuit of Azzedine Ounahi, they remain wholly interested.

He wrote on Twitter: "Azzedine Ounahi deal. Leeds have to decide how to proceed with signings after spending big money on Rutter, deal not dead but other clubs also moving... Next week expected to be key — as Napoli have offered €15m to Angers one week ago."

With a reported offer of €25m (£22m) sent last week, it remains to be seen whether that is true and will be accepted above the offer from the Italians.

"Incredible" to watch

The Moroccan has been a long-term target of the Yorkshire outfit ever since his sensational displays at the 2022 World Cup, with links between player and club dating back as far as the 12th of December, when Orta himself outlined their interest.

As such, these recent comments from the mega-journalist reaffirm their pursuit and will leave fans of the club hoping they can add to an already blistering start to the window.

Especially with someone who captured the imagination so absorbedly at the World Cup, leading to praise from the great Jose Mourinho: "Their No.8, the young boy that plays in France in Angers, Ounahi, was absolutely incredible."

It was his display against Spain that seemed to draw the most accolades, with Luis Enrique commending the workmanlike display that saw him cover 14.7km: "He didn't stop running. He must be exhausted."

However, these displays were not reserved for the international game, as for his club he retains 25 carries per 90 at an average distance of 11.33m.

The 22-year-old is a consistent progressive presence, and as such, he ranks in the top 1% for dribbles completed too. He is certainly a thrilling player to watch, capable of the spectacular 

His former assistant coach Corentin Bouchard had predicted such a rise to the top, as long as he found the right environments. He claimed: "He was so talented, that was clear in every training session, and we always hoped he would get there.

"He had strong technical qualities, both to keep the ball and to unbalance a team by passing, dribbling or shooting. On top of that, he had very, very impressive stamina, which allowed him to repeat his efforts again and again."

He continued: "He is someone who has ego and character, but who also listens to what is said to him and is very respectful and affectionate. That's why he was like our little protégé."

His addition is sure to bolster an already-improving Leeds squad and would give fans another asset of whom to get excited.