According to reports from Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg, Leeds are in the hunt to land the signature of Hoffenheim striker Georginio Rutter.
Hoffenheim are rumoured to be aware of the interest from Leeds, and will look to command a fee between €30 – 40 million for the Frenchman, should the Whites make a move in the current transfer window.
Rutter, 20, signed for Hoffenheim from French side Rennes almost two years ago at the end of the 2021 January transfer window for a reported fee of €750,000 [via HITC]. The German side would profit greatly from a massive return on this investment if Leeds are willing to meet Hoffenheim’s alleged valuation of up to €40 million.
Despite being viewed as a highly talented prospect, the 20 year old’s stats for the season to date would make you wonder whether Victor Orta and co. would be willing to meet such a huge transfer fee – Rutter has registered two goals and two assists in 15 Bundesliga games.
With that said, to be playing at that level at his age would indicate there is massive potential there, and Leeds could look to tap into that with a swoop for the striker.
Leeds’ issues in the attacking department have been well documented, with Patrick Bamford’s ongoing battles with injury continuing to slow down his return to first-team football. Rodrigo has been excellent in front of goal for Leeds this season and youngster Joe Gelhardt is very highly rated, though Marsch’s side are still a bit lightweight when it comes to depth in that area of the field.
As discussed here on Vital Leeds, Coventry City striker Viktor Gyökeres is also tipped as a name at the top of Victor Orta’s watchlist. Fans will continue to watch the club’s activity closely this month, eagerly anticipating some new recruits to bolster Jesse Marsch’s attacking options.