Leeds United have joined the race for West Ham United target Alberth Elis, who could leave Bordeaux in the ongoing transfer window.
According to Honduran publication Diez, Alberth Elis has emerged on the radar of Leeds United, while West Ham United are also in the chase for the 26-year-old winger. Bordeaux exercised their buy option after he spent the last season on loan from Boavista, but the French side could look to profit from a sale with interest mounting from the Premier League.
Alberth Elis is not the most well-known name in the market, but the Honduran attacker is gaining plenty of attention from English clubs. This could turn into an opportunity for Bordeaux, who continue to remain in a financial mess.
The French side had already been relegated after finishing at the bottom of Ligue 1. The DNCG, French football’s financial watchdog, decided to relegate them to the third division due to their economic situation, although the club have launched an appeal. At the same time, Bordeaux are looking at ways to raise funds, potentially by selling some players.
Elis played for Bordeaux on loan from Boavista last season and finished with a decent return of nine goals in the 2021/22 Ligue 1. The French side had a buy option in the loan agreement with the Portuguese club and exercised it for under £6 million.
Bordeaux are now using the interest from Premier League clubs to make a profit out of a sale, and somewhat improve their financial standing. The French side could demand at least double what they paid, as Leeds United and West Ham United remain keen on the Honduras star.
Leeds entered the chase as they look likely to lose star attacker Raphinha. Arsenal have been frontrunners for so long, but Chelsea seems to have stolen the march over their London rivals and are close to agreeing a deal for the Brazilian with the Yorkshire club.
Elis could be considered to replace Raphinha in this Leeds side, although they face competition from West Ham. David Moyes has been keen on signing a new wide attacker to his ranks as he looks to bolster the squad depth ahead of the new season.
As things stand, either of these clubs could crack a deal with Bordeaux without much fuss. The 26-year-old Elis is expected to be open to new adventures and England could be an attractive destination for the Honduras star.
