Football
Leeds United Fighting to Tie Down Pascal Struijk as Villa and Bournemouth Circle
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Leeds United want to tie Pascal Struijk to a new deal amid interest from elsewhere, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.
The defender has produced a string of fine performances as part of the Whites’ resurgence to propel themselves to Premier League safety, which has caught the eye of a number of suitors.
Belgian centre-back Struijk will have a year left on his deal at the end of the season and will have a big decision to make if he declines a contract extension.
Our sources have been told there is interest from Aston Villa and Bournemouth as both sides look to strengthen a the heart of their defence this summer.
Struijk’s ability to break lines with his passing prowess and aerial presence have made him a wanted man.
And if offers with the lure of European football do arrive for the two-time Championship winner, they could simply be too good to turn down.
Fulham have been long-time admirers of the versatile defender, but are waiting on a decision regarding boss Marco Silva’s future before making any transfer noises.
Struijk, who joined the club on trial after being released by Ajax, signed a professional deal at Elland Road in 2018 and extended his contract in December 2022.
Strong Second Half To Season
Daniel Farke’s side have secured eight points from a possible 12 to push themselves eight points clear of the drop with just three games to go.
Their form has dramatically improved since the start of December, losing just four of their 21 Premier League outings since then, with two of those defeats coming against top two Manchester City and Arsenal.
It has been a stunning spell for the Yorkshire club, which has also seen them progress to the semi-finals of the FA Cup.
They have taken four points off both Chelsea and Manchester United as well as getting two draws with defending champions Liverpool.
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