POTSDAM, GERMANY - MAY 24: Bruno Ogbus of SC Freiburg U 19 in action during the DFB Junior Cup Final 2024 match between Sport-Club Freiburg and TSG 1899 Hoffenheim at Karl-Liebknecht-Stadion on May 24, 2024 in Potsdam, Germany. (Photo by Boris Streubel/Getty Images for DFB)

Leeds United are keen on signing Freiburg’s young defender Bruno Ogbus, but they are up against competition from AC Milan and Nottingham Forest.

AC Milan has already had a multi-million pound offer for Ogbus rejected by Freiburg.

The Bundesliga side intends to keep Ogbus and is planning to integrate him into their first team this season.

Leeds United are looking to sign Freiburg’s Bruno Ogbus but face competition from Nottingham Forest and AC Milan for the defender.

The 18-year-old Bruno Ogbus is highly valued by Freiburg, despite not yet making his senior debut. His recent appearances have been for the U19s and the reserve team.

His potential has attracted attention from clubs across Europe, including AC Milan, which had a “low digit” offer in the millions rejected for the young defender.

Elland Road

In a recent update, Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg revealed that Leeds United have entered the race for Freiburg’s promising 18-year-old defender Bruno Ogbus. Nottingham Forest and Leeds are both keeping tabs on the young talent. However, Freiburg is not willing to sell, as they plan to integrate Ogbus into their first team this season.

Freiburg’s intention to offer him Bundesliga experience underscores their high regard for the Swiss youth international. Given the consistent track record of German clubs in providing pathways to the first team for young players, Ogbus is likely to be attracted to staying with Freiburg.

Bruno Ogbus Career Appearances (Source: Transfermarkt)
Team Appearances
SC Freiburg U19 14
SC Freiburg II 9
Switzerland U17 3
Switzerland U18 5
Switzerland U19 8

AC Milan, being a prominent club, and Nottingham Forest, with their Premier League wages, could have an edge in attracting Bruno Ogbus if they make formal bids.

Leeds United would likely need to present a compelling vision to Ogbus to persuade him to join them at Elland Road. While game time in the Championship might be a possibility, especially if he doesn’t immediately displace key players like Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk, Leeds would need to highlight the benefits of their project.

Leeds’ focus on young talent is a positive move, reflecting the fan demand for new signings to enhance Daniel Farke’s squad before the transfer window closes.

Despite some valid criticism of the previous management, Leeds United have been successful in signing talented young players over the past four or five years.

A prime example is Crysencio Summerville, who joined from Feyenoord for £1.3 million, seeking more opportunities with Leeds. He developed into a key player and was recently sold to West Ham United for over £25 million, reflecting his impressive performance over the past year.

Crysencio Summerville for Leeds United

The success of Leeds United’s approach to signing young talent, exemplified by Crysencio Summerville’s journey, clearly benefits the club’s reputation and encourages other promising players to consider them.

Striking the right balance in recruitment is crucial, but with Daniel Farke’s expertise in German football, Leeds should be well-positioned to attract and nurture exciting prospects like Bruno Ogbus. Securing such a talent would be a significant achievement for the club.