Leeds could send a huge message to Marcelo Bielsa about their future ambitions by signing Udinese star Rodrigo De Paul this summer.
What’s the story?
Reports last summer suggested that Leeds were very much interested in bringing the Argentina international to Elland Road, and The Athletic’s Phil Hay meanwhile recently indicated that the midfielder wants to come too.
Should Leeds sign De Paul?
Yes!
No!
Now, according to TuttoAtalanta, Atalanta have joined the race to sign De Paul this summer, and that Udinese are open to selling him.
The report adds however that Leeds’ interest remains strong after going after him last year, while there are several clubs from both La Liga and the Premier League who are also keeping a close eye on the situation.
Sending Bielsa a message
Speaking last summer, former goalkeeper Paul Robinson raved about the prospect of De Paul’s arrival, saying: “Rodrigo De Paul can play across all of the midfield positions but he’s capable of unlocking doors like Hernandez. He’s a clever player, he can see a pass going forward and it just shows you the level the club are at that they’re going for players like this.
“They’re not afraid to be paying £20m-£30m for these sorts of players. It shows that Leeds are back in the big time and I have no doubt that footballers like De Paul will come to Leeds because of Bielsa.”
And that last sentiment about being “back in the big time” is what should have Andrea Radrizzani all over a deal for De Paul.
Tying up a big-money deal for the Argentine would send a hugely important message to Bielsa that Leeds mean business and that they are not in the Premier League to just make up the numbers.
A signing of the £34.2m-rated De Paul’s calibre, and at his cost, would go a long way to convincing the Leeds boss that the club are intent on taking a big step forward.
Meanwhile, Fabrizio Romano delivers a major Leeds United transfer update…