Leeds United and Nottingham Forest are both vying for the signature of Strasbourg forward Dilane Bakwa. The French under-21 international has impressed in Ligue 1, scoring 9 goals in 62 appearances. Leeds are seen as the current frontrunners, with Bakwa believing he’ll get more playing time, while Forest can offer potential European football. The transfer is expected to cost around €35 million, and the player is keen on a move to the Premier League.
The transfer window is rapidly approaching its close, and two Premier League clubs, Leeds United and Nottingham Forest, are locked in a pursuit of French under-21 international forward Dilane Bakwa. Both clubs are hoping to secure the services of the Strasbourg attacker before the September 1st deadline, adding another layer of excitement to the final days of the summer transfer period.
Bakwa, who has been a consistent performer for Strasbourg since joining the club in 2023, has impressed with his goal-scoring record, netting 9 goals in 62 Ligue 1 appearances. His pace, dribbling ability, and eye for goal have attracted the attention of several clubs across Europe, but it is the two English sides who are currently leading the chase.
According to sources, Leeds United currently hold a slight advantage in the race for Bakwa’s signature. The player is reportedly leaning towards a move to Elland Road, believing that he would be afforded more regular first-team opportunities. Leeds manager, while having a wealth of attacking options, has yet to fully settle on a preferred attacking trio, with Noah Okafor, Joel Piroe, and Wilfried Gnonto all vying for starting positions. This uncertainty provides Bakwa with the prospect of immediate involvement in the team.
Nottingham Forest, however, are not giving up without a fight. They possess a strong squad depth in attacking areas, boasting the likes of Chris Wood and Callum Hudson-Odoi, but manager is keen to add further quality to his ranks. Forest’s potential participation in European competitions could also prove to be a significant draw for Bakwa, offering him the chance to test himself against some of the continent’s best teams.
The financial aspect of the deal is also a key consideration. Strasbourg are believed to be demanding a fee of around €35 million for their prized asset. Bakwa himself is committed to a move to England, despite reported interest from several German clubs. A potential sticking point in negotiations with Leeds could be Bakwa’s demand for a relegation release clause, given the club’s recent drop to the Championship. Forest, on the other hand, can offer the allure of Premier League football and potentially European competition.
Bakwa’s versatility is another attribute that makes him a valuable asset. While he primarily operates as a right winger, he is equally comfortable playing on the left flank and has even been deployed as a centre-forward on occasion. This adaptability would provide both Leeds and Forest with tactical flexibility.
The coming days will be crucial as both clubs attempt to finalize a deal for Dilane Bakwa. With the transfer window closing fast, the pressure is on to reach an agreement with Strasbourg and convince the player to choose their respective club. The outcome of this transfer saga could have a significant impact on both teams’ ambitions for the upcoming season.
The pursuit of Bakwa highlights the increasing competitiveness of the Premier League in attracting top talent from across Europe. Both Leeds and Forest are demonstrating their ambition to build strong squads capable of challenging for success, and the addition of a player like Bakwa would undoubtedly be a significant step in that direction.
