Leeds United are closing in on a deal for Nice left-back Melvin Bard, who is due to arrive in England on Tuesday, September 1, to undergo a medical and complete his move before the transfer deadline.
The 25-year-old is expected to join Daniel Farke’s side on a season-long loan, with Leeds paying an initial €1 million (£860,000). The agreement is understood to include an option to buy Bard for a further €5 million (£4.3 million) next summer. ([sports.yahoo.com](https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/leeds-united-agree-deadline-day-091611209.html?utm_source=openai))
Bard has been a regular for Nice since moving from Lyon in 2021 and has made almost 200 appearances for the Ligue 1 club. He signed a contract extension in 2024 that runs until 2028. ([ogcnice.com](https://www.ogcnice.com/en/fiche/2395/melvin-bard.html?utm_source=openai))
The Frenchman’s arrival would give Leeds additional cover at left-back, where Sweden international Gabriel Gudmundsson has been the principal option. James Justin, who is naturally right-footed, has also been used in the position.
Leeds have moved for Bard after injuries added to their defensive concerns. Gudmundsson has only recently returned from a hamstring problem, while Joe Rodon was forced off during the 1-1 draw with Brentford.
Bard is a left-footed defender capable of operating as a full-back or further forward as a wing-back. Nice’s official profile also records his ability to play as a left-sided centre-back, offering Farke further flexibility as Leeds strengthen their squad on deadline day. ([ogcnice.com](https://www.ogcnice.com/en/fiche/2395/melvin-bard.html?utm_source=openai))
