Leeds United are said to be considering signing PSV’s Ismael Saibari, who has been likened to Burnley’s Hannibal Mabry, in January.
Hannibal investigated by FA after allegedly spitting at Leeds fans
The Whites lost 2-0 to Burnley in the Premier League last month and are likely to face the Clarets in a bid to avoid an immediate return to the Championship in 2026.
One of the big talking points in the defeat at Turf Moor was Hannibal’s alleged actions in spitting at a traveling Leeds fan, which was reported by supporters at the time.
It has since been said that the FA are investigating the allegations, with former referee Keith Hackett suggesting Hannibal will be banned for at least three games if found guilty.
“The spitting allegation is now in the public domain and will be investigated by the FA. If proven, the player will receive a suspension. This is classed as violent conduct and will result in a minimum suspension of three games.”
It remains to be seen what the FA will decide, but Leeds are in the market for an attacking midfielder like the Burnley player in the transfer window.
Leeds considering signing PSV midfielder Ismael Saibari
Leeds are considering signing PSV Eindhoven attacking midfielder Saibari in January, according to a report from Leeds United News and journalist Graham Bailey.
The Moroccan international has played in holding, central and attacking midfield roles this season, scoring an impressive 10 goals in 16 games, including two in the Champions League. Saibari also scored a hat-trick away against Feyenoord, and Bailey said:
“Caibari has had a great season and his form is attracting interest. He’s an attacking midfielder but can also play up front. He can really play anywhere and that’s a big attraction.”
“It’s easy to see why he’s on the radar of Leeds, and the fact that he’s from the Netherlands means he’s more financially achievable than in other parts of Europe.”
The 24-year-old looks like an ideal target for Leeds, who are in need of more goals for a side who have scored the third-fewest goals in the Premier League behind Nottingham Forest and Wolves.
Sean Longstaff and Anton Stach have both found the back of the net, but adding a player like Saibari could be a wise move.
Midfielder similar to Saibari | club |
|---|---|
James McAtee | nottingham forest |
Hannibal Mabry | burnley |
jove bellingham | borussia dortmund |
gas hummer | sheffield united |
Arne Engels | celtic |
He has been likened to fairly talented young players such as Hannibal and Jobe Bellingham, and given Saibari’s start to the season, the deal could help Leeds break out of their slump.
