Leeds United have decided to abandon their pursuit of Cheikhou Kouyate after he failed his medical at the club, according to sources close to Football Insider.
The 34-year-old midfielder underwent tests on Tuesday but did not receive the green light from Leeds’ medical staff.
It was reported earlier that Kouyate was set to join Leeds on a free transfer, with manager Daniel Farke hoping to strengthen his squad due to recent injuries to key players.
With the likes of Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev sidelined with knee injuries until the new year, Leeds are now left with limited options in midfield.
Kouyate, who left Nottingham Forest last summer as a free agent, will now need to explore other potential opportunities as Leeds look to shore up their squad before the January transfer window.
Former Leeds goalkeeper Paul Robinson suggested the possibility of recalling loanee Dark Gyabi from Plymouth Argyle to help alleviate the injury crisis.
Leeds will face off against Sheffield United on Friday in a crucial derby match, as both teams vie for promotion to the Premier League and currently sit in the top five of the Championship table.