As Leeds’ search for a midfielder continues, one of their primary targets has had a massive price tag slapped on him. Leeds United transfer news has featured Benfica’s Florentino Luis recently, but this might be the most notable development thus far.
Tuttomercatoweb claimed Leeds and Fulham are interested in Luis last week. The Italian publication noted Monaco’s interest too, with the French club allegedly already tabling a bid for the much-wanted midfielder.
A Bola added that Benfica are looking for a whopping £41.5 million for the Portugal under-21 international. Leeds have already broken their transfer record this summer to bring in Spanish forward Rodrigo – this would see them smash the record again.
Where Fulham have been wary of overspending on their return to the Premier League, a mistake they made upon their last promotion, Leeds have been keen to splash the cash.
Marcelo Bielsa has landed major upgrades in Rodrigo and Robin Koch – would they spend this much on a relatively unproven player like Luis?
A Bola reported Fulham have made an offer to take Luis on loan for the season with an obligation to buy for £27 million next summer. Leeds could be dragged into a bidding war for the 21-year-old if they choose to pursue a deal.
England Legend Excited To See Bielsa In Premier League
England goal scoring legend turned national treasure Gary Lineker has become the latest high-profile pundit to praise Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa.
Lineker said he is ‘fascinated’ to see Bielsa’s Whites in the Premier League, and he believes they have the best chance of staying up of the newly promoted clubs.
Writing for The Sun, Lineker said, “Of the new boys, I think Leeds have the best chance of staying up... It’s great to see them back in the top flight after a 16-year absence and I’m fascinated to see how manager Marcelo Bielsa does."
I sort of love Bielsa. “I observed all the rivals we played against and watched the training sessions of all our opponents before we played against them” ?
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) January 16, 2019
Lineker, who hosts BBC’s Match of the Day, is keen to see Leeds test themselves against the best, starting with reigning champions Liverpool on the opening day of the season.
“There is something of the ‘mad genius’ about the Argentine but his team were brilliant against Arsenal in the FA Cup last season. I can’t wait to see more of them against the big boys and what a way to start for them — away at Anfield, the home of the champions.”
Back in the Premier League for the first time in almost two decades, the spotlight will be on Leeds this season. They have been at the centre of discussion from pundits already, and that will only increase as the season gets underway.
How do you think Bielsa’s side will get on? They are 8/5 to finish in the top half in the latest Premier League Odds.
*Credit for the main photo belongs to Manu Fernandez / AP Photo*
