Pascal Struijk is expected to depart Leeds United this summer, with a move to Brighton confirmed as the likely destination.
Leeds have identified Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Ladislav Krejci as a primary target to replace the Dutch midfielder.
The Czech international is valued at roughly £40 million, and Leeds are preparing to open negotiations with the recently relegated club.
Club officials must decide whether to meet the asking price for a player who has demonstrated Premier League quality.
Krejci’s defensive skill set and experience are considered well suited to fill the gap left by Struijk.
Leeds' defensive performance last season revealed notable weaknesses that the management aims to rectify.
Improving the back line is central to the club’s ambition of establishing a stable presence in the top flight.
Beyond his defensive abilities, Krejci brings leadership and the perspective of a national team captain to the squad.
The transfer would allow the defender to avoid a season in the Championship and secure a swift return to Premier League competition.