Leeds United transfer news has been dominated by an Argentine midfielder by the name of Rodrigo De Paul in recent weeks. The Athletic’s Phil Hay, when replying to fans on Twitter, has shed some light on Leeds’ pursuit of De Paul.
Asked if there was an update on the saga, Hay simply replied, “hasn’t gone away that one”.
While that sounds positive for the naturally excited Leeds faithful, the follow up was not such good news. Another fan asked if the transfer had moved closer. Hay answered, “not yet”.
The optimistic among the fan base will view that response as a sign that Hay expects movement in the near future, but the fact this transfer has come to a standstill is a concern.
An initial offer was deemed ‘not good enough’, and there is scepticism Leeds will be able to get a deal done. The market for the Udinese star has always been competitive, but that has increased further with Zenit St Petersburg entering the race.
Whether a move to Russia interests De Paul remains to be seen. Zenit can offer big bucks.
Others have suggested Russia will not appeal to De Paul, but that’s not necessarily good news for Leeds as he could favour staying in Italy.
He may yet hold out for a big Serie A move, with Juventus considered a ‘dream destination’ and Fiorentina clearly in the mix.
Leeds Narrowly Missed Out On French Star
Per Le10 Sport, Leeds were very close to bringing Dimitri Payet back to the Premier League this summer.
According to the report, Marcelo Bielsa made a personal effort to recruit Payet following Leeds’ promotion. Payet promised Bielsa he would consider his offer, and it is claimed he was ‘seriously tempted’ by the chance to return to England.
Ultimately, Payet opted to stay with Marseille and has landed a new deal with the Ligue 1 giants. Well into his thirties, this was likely the last opportunity to see Payet return to England and it seems probable he will finish off his playing career with Marseille.
What a signing that could have been.
Leeds Battle Arsenal For Young Striker
Leeds and Arsenal are two of several Premier League clubs keen on Fluminese’s Brazil-born striker Marcos Paulo, according to TeamTalk.
Southampton, West Ham and relegated Watford are also showing an interest in Paulo, who has a £40 million release clause.
Although Paulo was born in Brazil, he opted to play for Portugal at youth level. He has limited experience at senior levels, but his potential is clearly high. It would be a huge gamble for any club to splash out on such an unproven player.
With major investment already made in Rodrigo and Robin Koch, a signing such as this seems very unlikely for Leeds unless they can get him a much lower price.
*Credit for the main photo belongs to Manu Fernandez / AP Photo*
