Leeds United cannot take Ladislav Krejci World Cup risk and must pay Wolves star’s release clause
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(Credit: Imago) Fri 24 April 2026 7:45, UK Leeds United have been heavily linked with Wolves’ Ladislav Krejci ahead of the summer transfer window.The Czech Republic international has been one of the few highlights at Molineux this season despite their relegation.As a result, Leeds have taken an interest in the centre-back as they look to reinforce their backline once more.However, the Express and Star have reported that the Peacocks are only prepared to pay £26million for the 27-year-old, well below his £40m+ release clause.Nevertheless, with the 2026 World Cup just around the corner, Leeds may be forced to splash the cash. 🔄 Leeds United Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on latest signings, departures, and contract news from the Elland Road boardroom. VISIT THE LEEDS TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES A good World Cup could drum up interest in Ladislav KrejciDespite his difficult time at Wolves, Krejci has been on fire on the international front.In March, the defender scored twice in the World Cup playoffs across two matches to ensure his nation qualified.Ladislav Krejci’s Premier League stats this seasonPer 90 minutesGoals 0.08xG0.09Tackles1.10Interceptions1.27Recoveries2.98Krejci has a mixed set of stats this season.
Credit: FotmobIn these games, he was arguably their best player and became a hero in the Czech Republic.If these performances can be repeated, it would no doubt drum up interest and could easily increase his price tag.Therefore, Leeds would be wise to simply pay the release clause now before the World Cup.If not, they will inevitably lose out on the Wolves star, especially if the Czech Republic end up going far in the competition.Who else are Leeds linked to ahead of the summer transfer window?Football Insider has exclusively revealed that Matt Targett is also wanted by Leeds ahead of the summer transfer window.The left-back is expected to leave Newcastle United on a free transfer at the end of the season, and he is set to pay serious consideration to any offers that would allow him to remain in the top flight.Currently, the defender is on loan at Middlesbrough, with the club aiming to make a return to the Premier League this season.Déjà vu of sorts — Ladislav Krejčí scored the 2-2 equalizer to help take Czechia to penaltiesThis time, though, he missed his kick!It didn’t matter, though, as Czechia won over Denmark on penalties and will be back at the World Cup for the first time since 2006! https://t.co/H7vjvR1f5c pic.twitter.com/8nUPzwGIfF— Charles Erb (@charlescerb) March 31, 2026 During his time at Boro, he has impressed and has already scored four times and provided three assists this season.Everton are also tracking Targett in what could be a potential bargain for either side.Nevertheless, it remains to be seen who will win the race for the left-back, with the Newcastle player unlikely to be short of options ahead of the upcoming transfer window. 🚨 Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Leeds United Insider Access Get the full story from Elland Road and Thorp Arch with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of West Yorkshire.