Chelsea and Leeds set to go to war over summer transfer for Brentford sensation Said Benrahma
LEEDS could be set to battle Chelsea for the signature of Brentford’s star winger Said Benrahma.
Premier League new boys Leeds are reportedly planning to go head-to-head with their old rivals for the Algeria international.
Benrahma, 24, has won plaudits for his outstanding performances for the London side in the Championship.
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The Bees player, who’s valued around the £25million price mark, has been on target 17 times and provided four assists so far this term.
Benrahma’s knack for playing on the left and right wings reportedly attracted the attention of Frank Lampard’s club this season.
And the player’s versatility has also piqued the interest of Leeds manager Bielsa, who had a public fallout with Lampard over a spygate row during his tenure as Derby coach.
With Brazil veteran Willian's future still to be decided, Benrahma has been linked with a switch to the Blues, according to the Daily Express
However, with the club signing former Ajax star Hakim Ziyech, it remains to be seen as to whether a move down the road could be on the cards for the Brentford star.
Leeds, whose fierce rivalry with Chelsea goes back decades to the 1969-70 season when they faced each other six times, have reportedly compiled a list of transfer targets they believe will cement their Premier League place.
And Marco Bielsa is believed to have made a Benrahma buy a top priority for the Elland Road side, according to reports.
However, any swoop for the player could prove to be tough to push through if Brentford see-off Fulham in their Championship play-off game on Tuesday.
But if Scott Parker’s players defeat the Bees, Leeds - who won the Championship by ten points - could make their move for the Brentford winger by the end of the week.
On his playing future Benrahma said: “I was really flattered [to see myself linked with those clubs]
“But, at the same time, I am so focused about getting out of the Championship with Brentford that I do not pay too much attention.
"But it gives me confidence.
“It has always been a target of mine to play in the Premier League and I really wish to play in the Premier League with Brentford.
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“It would be magnificent for Brentford because it would be the first time and we have really been working hard on it. I am still confident.”
Leicester City and Newcastle were previously keen on the Algerian.
SunSport revealed the duo were willing to pay up to £15million to buy the winger, but his value has increased since then.