Leeds United have had a bid for defender Chris Mepham rejected by Bournemouth, according to Fabrizio Romano on X.
Romano tweeted that both Leeds and their Yorkshire rivals Sheffield United are keen on the 34-cap Welsh international but The Cherries have rejected the approaches as they see Mepham as having a role to play for them during the Premier League run-in.
Bournemouth, managed by former Rayo Vallecano boss Andoni Iraola, currently sit 12th and nine points above the drop zone and are keen to ensure they don’t leave themselves short of defensive cover as the league comes to a close and the games come thick and fast. Mepham’s last start for his club came in the disappointing 4-0 home reverse to Liverpool eight days ago and he was an unused substitute in the resounding 5-0 FA Cup victory over Swansea City.
Leeds have made defensive reinforcements their priority before the transfer window shuts on 1st February and have been linked with a host of names this month, including Everton’s Ben Godfrey. According to a report in the Yorkshire Evening Post, the Welshman admitted earlier this month that he would have to be ‘open to all options’ as he has only seen league action on six occasions this season and has only started three times.
The centre-back has made 117 appearances for the South Coast outfit since joining for a reported £12 million fee from Brentford in January 2019. He was a regular in the starting eleven last season, with 26 appearances, but has found it hard to gain his place above the likes of Argentinian international Marcos Senesi and big-money signing Ilya Zabarnyi.
Writer’s View
Mepham would be a good signing for Daniel Farke’s men as they look to continue their fine form and close in on one of the two automatic promotion places. The Welsh international, at only 26 years of age, would also provide the club with excellent defensive options for years to come and will add Premier League experience to The Whites squad.
Understandably, Bournemouth are in no rush to sell a player who is reportedly under contract until 2025 and who provides experienced cover at the heart of the defence. It will be interesting to monitor over the coming days whether The Cherries can have their head turned by any improved bids.
A primary school teacher turned writer, Tom has been part of The Real EFL for two years. He focuses on predictions, deep dives, and insightful content.
