Ambitious ‘reach’ signings have been detailed by Graham Smyth previously in the transfer window, but Leeds United have been able to secure top targets like Anton Stach, Jaka Bijol, and Lucas Perri already.

Leeds have made great progress on Paixao in recent days, but Smyth claims the Paixao deal is the ‘hardest’ of Leeds’ window thus far, which is why they cannot count their chickens just yet.

Beren Cross believes Leeds have pitched to several wingers while this process for Paixao has been ongoing. Leeds’ confidence is growing, though, with a £28 million plus add-ons bid made for Paixao.

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Dilane Bakwa is an excellent alternative for Leeds to Paixao

The 25-year-old Brazilian is a potentially “transformational” signing for Leeds and Daniel Farke, given Paixao’s form has been outstanding with Feyenoord in recent years.

Leeds supporters won’t want to hear the term ‘hijack’ but it’s fair to say they have been here before when a deal was edging towards being finalised. For a player of Paixao’s talents, there is an increased chance of that happening.

Therefore, one alternative for Leeds could be RC Strasbourg’s Dilane Bakwa. The Athletic’s Beren Cross revealed he is someone they have their eye on already. Bakwa was linked alongside Bilal El Khannouss.