Leeds Join Sunderland and Bournemouth in Race for Sassuolo Defender Muharemovic

Daniel Farke's search for defensive reinforcements has taken an international turn, with Leeds United now in the mix to land Sassuolo's Tarik Muharemovic, according to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano.

The Yorkshire club's need for additional centre-back cover became pressing following Pascal Struijk's departure to Brighton and Hove Albion on June 30 for a reported £20million. That exit leaves Farke with four established options at the back: Jaka Bijol, Joe Rodon, Sebastiaan Bornauw, and Maximilian Wober.

Romano confirmed on X that Leeds have joined Sunderland and Bournemouth in the hunt for the 23-year-old Bosnia and Herzegovina international, with Juventus retaining a 50% sell-on clause in any deal.

Muharemovic, who spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Sassuolo before the move was made permanent, penned fresh terms with the Serie A outfit in November 2025, tying him down until summer 2031. The defender has already featured three times for his country at the ongoing 2026 World Cup.

Sunderland appear to be moving fastest in the pursuit. Italian journalist Luca Cerchione reported that the Stadium of Light club has tabled a five-year contract proposal worth €3.5 million net annually, with an official offer set to land on Sassuolo's desk in the coming week to formally commence negotiations. Fellow Italian correspondent Lucas Cilli confirmed the Wearside outfit's serious interest, noting Bournemouth's involvement in the race as well.

Whether Leeds can muscle in on a deal that looks increasingly concrete remains to be seen, but Farke will be keen to bolster his defensive ranks before the window slams shut.