Leeds United have identified their replacement for the outgoing Raphinha in the shape of Club Brugge forward Noa Lang, but will face competition from Italy for his signature.

Raphinha is widely expected to leave Elland Road this summer, and should reports be believed, Arsenal have now moved ahead of Barcelona in the race for the Brazilian forward's signature.

Wherever he goes, it seems certain to be away from Yorkshire, and Leeds will need to find a way to replace their talisman, who almost single-handedly kept them afloat last season.

Jesse Marsch has already added Brenden Aaronson from RB Salzburg to bolster his attacking options, but is now reportedly keen on a move for Noa Lang, who has already admitted that he will be leaving Brugge this summer.

“I’ve been heating up Belgian football. I’m telling you: when I’m gone, Belgium will miss me,” he said.

“Because I gave colour to your football. Next season you will be crying for a Noa Lang in the Jupiler Pro League again.”

Leeds to face competition

However, Marsch will face competition for Lang's signature from Italy, with current Serie A champions AC Milan thought to be interested in the young winger. West Ham are also keen on a move for the forward, who has impressed in the Champions League against the likes of Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain.

Should Leeds be thwarted in their attempts to sign the Dutchman, they could turn their attentions to Welsh winger Rabbi Matondo, whom the Whites are also understood to hold an interest in.

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