Leeds United continue to be linked with Jerry Mbakogu, with his Carpi club president Claudio Caliumi claiming the Nigerian is heading to Elland Road.
Mbakogu scored eight goals in all competitions last season but a knee injury curtailed his appearances in the second half of the campaign.
Leeds are understood to have an option to sign the striker from the Italian Serie B club up until the end of the month even after Paul Heckingbottom’s sack.
The 40-year-old ex-Barnsley manager was axed on Friday.
Mbakogu is yet to be capped by his country, hence will play no part in this summer’s World Cup in Russia.
Fellow Italy-based forward, Simeon Nwankwo, could just sneak into the Mundial having enjoyed a solid second season with Crotone in the Serie A.
