Leeds United set for transfer battle with Southampton for Serie A star

Southampton will have to ward off strong interest from Leeds United in order to wrap up a deal for Sampdoria striker Stefano Okaka.

The south coast side it seemed were in pole position to land the Italy international last week. However, Whites boss Uwe Rosler has launched a surprise move to bring the 25-year-old to Elland Road.

Sampdoria president Massimo Ferrero is reportedly in the UK and could hold talks with Leeds chairman Massimo Cellino, according to Italian news outlet SampNews24.

It is unclear whether Okaka would be willing to opt for the Championship over the Premier League, plus the prospect of Europa League football with Ronald Koeman's men.

Okaka, who began his career at Roma, enjoyed a short loan stint in the Premier League with Fulham back in 2010 and Sampdoria could sacrifice the forward to make way for the return of former favourite Giampaolo Pazzini.

Okaka made his international debut last year and is valued at around £6m.