Former Leeds United striker target linked to relegation rivals Everton and Southampton

Leeds United's relegation rivals Everton and Southampton have reportedly been linked to Marseille striker Bamba Dieng after the Whites saw a deadline day deal in the summer window collapse.

According to French journalist Mohamed Toubache-Ter (via Get French Football News ), Leeds have made a late move for Marseille striker Bamba Dieng, although the signing of Georgino Rutter would seemingly make another striker arrival at Elland Road this month unlikely.

It is thought that Everton are also showing an interest in the 22-year-old, yet both Dieng and his agent are currently in favour of a move to fellow Ligue 1 side Lorient. The report states the forward has already agreed personal terms with Les Merlus and has reportedly flown to Lorient in order to undergo a medical.

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However, reports have suggested that Marseille are prepared to walk away from a deal with Lorient should they not in turn sign Terem Moffi - a move that would in essence see the club swap strikers.

Dieng was on the verge of agreeing a deal with the Whites, but their bid was hijacked by OGC Nice at the 11th hour on deadline day in the summer window.

In a dramatic turn of events however, Dieng failed his medical with the French club and returned to Marseille as an unwanted man. Since the summer, he has worked his way back into the fold at the Stadio Olympico, but having only started one league match all season - the Senegalese star may well be desperate to finally get his move to the Premier League.

Leeds, meanwhile, accelerated a move for teenage striker Wilfried Gnonto, who has gone to be one of the Whites' best players in recent weeks.

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