The search for new signings continues at Leeds United after failing to get a deal over the line for Igor Paixao, with reports now claiming Leeds have made a move for a Portuguese player.
Paixao chose Marseille over Leeds after Roberto De Zerbi’s side finally stumped up the necessary £30m fee to convince Feyenoord of a sale. The need for a left-sided winger at Leeds remains this summer.
Leeds are also expected to pursue a starting striker, but Newcastle have held talks to sign Leeds’ no.1 option Rodrigo Muniz. This week, Roma’s Artem Dovbyk has been linked with £30m required for a deal.
Replacing the imminent departure of Isaac Schmidt and competition for Brenden Aaronson are also areas that Leeds are likely to sort out this summer, and Leeds have made an enquiry to sort out the latter.
Photo by James Holyoak/MB Media/Getty ImagesLeeds make enquiry to sign Southampton’s Portuguese starlet
Daniel Farke admitted after the season had finished that he wanted Leeds to sign a no.10 in January, but could not get a deal over the line. If he is to remain with his 4-2-3-1 system, a new no.10 is required.
Brenden Aaronson was good in glimpses, but on the whole, the American struggled to make much of an impact. TeamTalk claim Leeds have looked to rectify that, by making an enquiry for Mateus Fernandes.
The Portuguese ace was a rare shining light in Southampton’s side last season. The 21-year-old had a hand in nine goals from midfield in 42 games last term, with six goals and assists in the Premier League.
Photo by Matt Watson/Southampton FC via Getty ImagesWest Ham pushing hardest to sign £20m-rated Mateus Fernandes
But Leeds are not the only side looking to sign Portugal U21 star Fernandes this summer. The TeamTalk report says West Ham and Crystal Palace are keen, as are European giants Juventus and Atletico Madrid.
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Clubs will have to part with £20m if they are to lure Fernandes away from Southampton. But it is said that West Ham are pushing the hardest to get Fernandes, having signed Kyle Walker-Peters from The Saints.
Crysencio Summerville’s side will be desperate to improve upon last season after a dismal 14th-placed finish and Fernandes is a man in demand. Leeds have also been linked with Emi Buendia and Gus Hamer.