A prominent journalist has given Leeds fans renewed hope of landing one of their primary transfer targets. The Athletic’s Phil Hay is the go-to man for Leeds United transfer news, and his update on the Rodrigo De Paul saga will have Whites fans excited.
Speaking on his own podcast, The Phil Hay Show, he spoke positively of De Paul’s interest in a move to Elland Road. This is huge for Leeds, considering there had been some concern that he might be too keen on a move.
“He [Rodrigo De Paul] is keen, there is no doubt about that and Leeds from their part are very keen as well.
"But it’s interesting because Leeds haven’t really moved hard to get anything else done since Rodrigo and Koch were done that weekend and £40m went out.”
A Gazzetta Dello Sport article claimed Udinese are holding out for £36.9 million for De Paul, and they are in no hurry to sell him if no one meets the asking price.
It was also noted he would like to move to a club with Champions League football, but Hay doesn’t think that will get in the way if Leeds stump up the cash.
He said, “Any other transfers and signings will rely very heavily on what Bielsa feels he needs. He doesn’t feel like he needs surplus players.
"It would be hard to describe De Paul as a surplus player, he looks like a terrific signing. Leeds could do it financially. If Leeds decide to go for it properly, my gut feeling is that yes he will [join Leeds].”
Leeds are clearly right in the mix for the Argentina international, a player who would bring class and experience to their squad. Once again, the pulling power of Marcelo Bielsa is on show.
Leeds Made To Wait For Liverpool Youngster
The Liverpool Echo linked Leeds with Liverpool winger Harry Wilson earlier this month. The rumour has resurfaced on the BBC, but it’s unlikely will happen before the two teams meet this weekend.
Simon Stone of the BBC commented on the transfer in a video on transfer gossip.
Stones claims there is no way a deal happens before the start of the season, but believes they could continue negotiations next week with Liverpool wanting over £15 million for Wilson.
Leeds aren’t the first team to be linked with Wilson, an exciting young talent who showed flashes of brilliance on loan at Bournemouth last term.
Several other Premier League clubs have been mentioned as potential landing spots for the 23-year-old, though some may be put off by the transfer fee for a player with only one season of top flight experience.
Wilson is a good option for Leeds as they pursue another attacking player, though they might look elsewhere considering the competition for his signature.
*Credit for the main photo belongs to Manu Fernandez / AP Photo*
