Earlier today, Barcelona named their squad for the trip to the United States, and Martin Braithwaite was nowhere to be seen after Leeds were offered his services.
What’s the story?
Well, it was said that Barcelona have offered the Denmark international to Jesse Marsch, who is still looking to bring a new striker to Elland Road.
Leeds are currently in talks with Paris Saint-Germain over a deal for Arnaud Kalimuendo, but with Newcastle also interested in the Frenchman, Braithwaite could now be an intriguing alternative.
Interest in the 31-year-old dates back to the Marcelo Bielsa days.
In November 2020, Spanish news outlet SPORT claimed that Leeds wanted to sign the Dane, after he had just been named in the Champions League Team of the Week.
Now, after Xavi decided to leave Braithwaite out of Barcelona’s trip to the US, we certainly wouldn’t be surprised to see Leeds explore his availability given their previous interest in his services.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona want him to leave as soon as possible, so we presume the Spanish giants would jump at the chance to sell their No.12 to Leeds.
Leeds must avoid Martin Braithwaite
If Marsch still hasn’t found a striker by the time deadline day approaches, then Braithwaite would be a decent emergency option for the Whites.
However, if the American can help it, he should avoid signing the £15m man.
Braithwaite only made four appearances in all competitions last season due to knee problems, which should be a concern for Leeds.
It would be a huge waste of money if Marsch took on the forward’s £98,000-a-week wages, only to have him sitting in the treatment room for months – it is too risky.
Whatever happens, we still believe Leeds will sign a striker this summer, so be sure to keep an eye on developments.
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