Leeds target Southampton's Leo Scienza for £25m and Burnley striker Zian Flemming

Leeds United are targeting Southampton midfielder Leo Scienza in a deal that could cost around £25 million, with Burnley forward Zian Flemming also identified as a priority signing as Daniel Farke looks to consolidate the club’s Premier League status ahead of next season.

Scienza, 27, impressed in his debut English football campaign, contributing seven goals and ten assists in 37 Championship appearances for Southampton. The Brazilian attacker joined the Saints for approximately £8 million after leaving Heidenheim last summer, and while uncertainty remains over whether his contract contains a release clause, reports suggest a fee in the region of £25 million could be enough to prise him away — particularly given the fallout from Southampton’s Spygate scandal, which may prompt several players to seek moves elsewhere.

Farke’s interest in Scienza reflects a broader tactical shift at Elland Road. Having previously relied on a back three and wide forwards, Leeds are now prioritising creative midfielders capable of operating across multiple positions. With Daniel James and Willy Gnonto potentially considered surplus to requirements, Scienza’s ability to play centrally and out wide makes him an appealing fit.

Flemming represents a second area of focus for Leeds this summer. The Burnley forward scored 11 goals in 29 Premier League appearances last season — nearly a third of the Clarets’ total tally of 38 — despite the club’s relegation. He joined Burnley for £7 million last summer after a loan spell at Turf Moor, and would likely command at least double that figure on the open market, though he would still fall within Leeds’ constrained budget.

Leeds are working with limited financial resources this summer and are expected to generate funds through player sales before committing to significant incomings. Farke steered the club to Premier League survival with relative comfort, but the squad requires reinforcement in several areas — not least in defence — if the club is to avoid another precarious campaign.

The summer transfer window opens in just over a fortnight, though Leeds are already laying the groundwork for what is expected to be a hectic period of activity at Elland Road.