🚨JUST IN :Leeds United ‘keen’ to tie down Elland Road star with new deal as rivals Sunderland ‘set to sign’ Ace

Leeds United bounced back from a heavy defeat against Burnley with a 2-0 win over Cardiff City last time out.    Championship competition is intensifying and Daniel Farke’s side are feeling the pressure as they are currently sixth in the table with 11 points.

   Leaders West Brom are yet to lose a game as they capitalized on Sunderland’s defeat to Plymouth Argyle earlier this month to jump into first place.    Burnley, Blackburn Rovers and Sheffield United currently make up the rest of the top six as they and the others below them continue to push for promotion at the end of the season.

   Ahead of Leeds meeting Coventry City at Elland Road on Saturday, we’ve rounded up some of the latest transfer headlines in the Championship.

   Leeds are keen to start new contract talks going forward

   According to Football Insider, Leeds are “keen to open up” discussions over a new deal with Dan James, who is currently under contract until 2026. Those at the club are keen to avoid the winger entering the final 18 months of his contract as they  leaving her vulnerable to losing him.

   Go to Elland Road with Graham Smyth – a new newsletter full of original, in-depth writing about Leeds for less than £1 a week

   If Leeds leave contract negotiations for too long, they may be forced to sell him next year, which is said to be a scenario the club “want to avoid”.    The Whites want James to commit his long-term future to the club.    He is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury but opened his season with a goal against Sheffield Wednesday before being sent off.

   Sunderland will be doing free signings ahead of the Leeds game

   Sunderland are set to sign Brighton striker Aaron Connolly on a free transfer, according to Sussex World.    The 23-year-old was released by Hull City in the summer and remains at one club.    He scored ten goals in 36 games for the Tigers last season and is waiting for a chance to contribute to the second team.

   Sunderland, currently second in the Championship table, face Leeds on October 4.    The Black Cats have already secured their top target of the season so far but will look to further boost their chances by signing Connolly.    The 24-year-old also previously played for Middlesbrough and Luton Town.