Leeds Nears £13.5m Deal for AC Milan Winger Noah Okafor and Celebrates Premier League Return with Win

Leeds United are reportedly close to finalizing a deal worth approximately £13.5 million for AC Milan winger Noah Okafor. The deal comes after Leeds marked their return to the Premier League with a 1-0 victory over Everton at Elland Road.

The Swiss international has expressed openness to the move and is reportedly discussing a four-year contract. Leeds is said to be leading the race with their offer, while Okafor has previously attracted interest from Arsenal and Everton.

Signed from RB Salzburg by Milan, Okafor’s career has been affected by minor injuries over the past three seasons. Last season, he spent part of the time on loan at Napoli, where he made just five appearances. Despite limited game time, he featured for Leeds in a pre-season match against Milan in Dublin, playing the full 90 minutes.

Leeds celebrated their return to top-flight football with a hard-fought win. Lukas Nmecha scored the decisive penalty in the 84th minute after Everton’s James Tarkowski handled a shot in the box. Nmecha, who had come off the bench, scored with his third touch of the game, sparking jubilation among the home fans.

Manager Daniel Farke described the night as ‘magic,’ praising his team’s performance. He highlighted their dominance in the first half, with 12 shots on goal, and praised Nmecha’s opportunism. Farke also acknowledged the importance of supporters’ loyalty, especially after years of struggle, calling the victory ‘special.’

Tarkowski, however, was frustrated by the penalty decision, which he called ‘bizarre,’ believing it cost Everton a point. He questioned the referee’s judgment and claimed the call was unfair, expressing confusion over how the decision was made from such a distance. Everton manager David Moyes echoed these sentiments, criticizing the referee but acknowledging Leeds’ superior performance on the night.