Leeds battle Hoffenheim in the race to land Varese forward Leonardo Pavoletti [Sky Italia]

Leeds United have been linked to Varese forward Leonardo Pavoletti by the renounce transfer gossip guru Gianluca Di Marzio.

The Sky Italia ITK has reported on Sunday that 25-year-old Italian forward Pavoletti, who plays in Serie B, is a potential target for both Leeds and Bundesliga outfit Hoffenheim.

Pavoletti, who is owned by Sassuolo, attracted attention last season at Varese when he scored 31 goals in 69 matches.

Di Marzio reports that Varese are now trying to secure the forward on a full time basis for €400,000, however Sassuolo are said to be holding out for €700,000.

As the two parties negotiate, Pavoletti’s agent Pisacane has spoken to Leeds and Hoffeinheim to court their interest. It’s said that Pavoletti hold face to face talks with Leeds this week.

Lazio are also named as a possible suitor for Pavoletti.