Leeds United beat Aston Villa, Benfica and Everton to free transfer of 17-goal Wales star

Leeds United are set to make their first signing of the summer transfer window, with Fulham and Wales international Harry Wilson closing in on a move to Elland Road.

Wilson’s future has been the subject of speculation for several months, with his contract at Craven Cottage nearing its conclusion. The 28-year-old enjoyed an impressive campaign for Fulham and has established himself as one of their standout performers. However, he has now opted for a fresh challenge and is set to strengthen an already talented Leeds United squad.

According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, an agreement has been reached between all parties, with Wilson set to sign a long-term contract. The winger is expected to undergo a medical in the coming days before the transfer is officially completed.

Leeds have long been admirers of Wilson and were interested in signing him last summer. His form also attracted interest from Aston Villa, Everton and Portuguese side Benfica, now managed by former Fulham boss Marco Silva. However, the Corwen-born attacker has chosen to follow in the footsteps of several Welsh players before him by making the move.

The move will also see Wilson receive an improved salary package as he prepares to begin the next chapter of his career in West Yorkshire.

Wilson was a key player for Fulham last season, enjoying the most productive year of his career. He played in 36 Premier League matches, scoring 10 goals and providing seven assists.

His move to Leeds will see him reunite with Dan James, Ethan Ampadu, Joe Rodon, and goalkeeper Karl Darlow. James and Wilson have already played together at Fulham and will now link up again at club level.

He captained his country for the first time in November, scoring a hat-trick for Wales in a 7-1 win over North Macedonia. Wilson then missed the 1-1 draw with Ghana and the 2-1 defeat to Romania, which could prove to be Craig Bellamy’s final camp in charge of Wales.

Bellamy has been strongly linked with a move to Burnley, who are admirers of the former Manchester City winger. Wilson’s move to Leeds also makes the situation easier, as it gives his replacement more time to settle in and build relationships with his international teammates.

Karl Darlow set to stay at Leeds United

Karl Darlow meanwhile is expected to remain at Leeds United despite reported interest from Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.

According to the Daily Mail, Manchester United are among the clubs monitoring the goalkeeper, but a move away from Elland Road now appears unlikely.

Instead, it is understood that Darlow is “more likely” to commit his future to Leeds by signing a new two-year contract, keeping him in Yorkshire for the foreseeable future despite Premier League interest.