The hottest piece of Leeds United transfer news today suggests that Rodrigo De Paul could yet move to Elland Road this summer despite a snag in a potential deal for the midfielder.
According to ESPN journalist David Amoyal, Udinese have accepted that he is likely to leave the club this summer and Leeds have opened initial talks to bring the 26-year-old to Elland Road.
Labelled as a player with “bit of a nasty streak in him”, De Paul would bring added bite to the Leeds midfield ahead of the club’s impending return to the Premier League.
Previous reports have hinted that De Paul could stay in Italy but Amoyal believes that the only Serie A side that he would join this summer is Juventus.
The latest rumours in Italy claim that Leeds have agreed a £31 million fee for the midfielder but Whites fans may have to wait a little longer before a deal is officially announced.
It would mean that Leeds would break their club record transfer fee for the second time this summer, having signed Rodrigo from Valencia for an estimated £27 million.
Although described as a player with a nasty streak, De Paul’s disciplinary record isn’t terrible on reflection. The Udinese midfielder is physical but looks well suited to the Premier League.
Robinson Urges Leeds To Sign Experienced Keeper
Paul Robinson believes that Leeds must sign a veteran goalkeeper ahead of their return to England’s top flight later this month.
Illan Meslier heads into the 2020/21 campaign as Leeds’ primary option at the position, with Kiko Casilla now the club’s second choice shot stopper.
However, Leeds could do with an experienced top flight goalkeeper – not only on the pitch but to help the club with crucial insight on the training ground.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, Robinson said, “Illan Meslier has done very well when he’s come in. Kiko Casilla has the experience, though.
“He’s been the number one for Leeds for the majority of the time under Marcelo Bielsa. I think you need three strong goalkeepers in the Premier League.
“Tottenham have just taken in Joe Hart – look at the three keepers they’ve got. Premier League sides tend to have three strong keepers.
“I’d like to see Leeds strengthen in that area. Meslier has done really well so far, but what happens if he gets injured?
“I’d like to see them sign an experienced, older goalkeeper who can come in and play in the Premier League if needed. Someone like Pepe Reina.”
Reina joined Serie A giants Lazio on a free transfer at the end of last season but a player of that calibre would certainly give Leeds a huge boost ahead of their Premier League return.
*Credit for the main photo belongs to Manu Fernandez / AP Photo*
