Leeds United are reportedly one of five clubs interested in signing Sunderland defender Trai Hume this summer, as Daniel Farke seeks to bolster his right-back options. Leeds have already bid farewell to Connor Roberts after his loan spell at Elland Road, and while there is some interest in making his move permanent, the uncertainty at Burnley, who are currently without a manager, means Leeds will have to wait. Meanwhile, Sam Byram has signed a new one-year deal, but his injury history is a concern, and Archie Gray, primarily a midfielder, is playing out of position on the right.
With Jamie Shackleton set to leave the club at the end of the month, Leeds are in need of at least one, possibly two, new right-backs. Ideally, they are looking for a versatile player who can cover both sides of the defense. Leeds Live reports that Leeds are interested in Sunderland’s 22-year-old right-back Trai Hume, who started all 46 league games for Sunderland last season and is known for his incredible stamina, work ethic, and reliability. Hume’s ability to play on either side of the defense or in the middle makes him a valuable target.
However, Leeds face competition from Aston Villa, Napoli, Leicester, and Bournemouth for Hume’s signature. Another potential issue is that Hume is represented by CAA Base, the same agency that manages Djed Spence, who had an unsuccessful loan spell at Leeds. Interest in Hume is not new; Leeds were previously linked with him ahead of the January window but faced competition from Burnley and Leicester, resulting in Hume staying at Sunderland for the time being.
Signing Hume would be a significant addition for Leeds given his Championship experience and durability, especially in contrast to Byram’s injury record. Hume could also serve as a long-term replacement for Luke Ayling.