Leeds United managed to bring in a new striker over the summer, as Rodrigo arrived in a big-money deal from Valencia to bolster Marcelo Bielsa’s attack.
Jean-Kevin Augustin’s loan move didn’t go to plan, so the more experienced Rodrigo has arrived, and has recently been playing as more of a number 10 behind Patrick Bamford.
Other strikers were linked with moves to Elland Road over the summer, and Basel hitman Arthur Cabral was one of the more interesting options.
The 22-year-old spent last season on loan at Basel from Palmeiras, and starred with 18 goals in 36 games for the Swiss giants before turning his move permanent.
A physical target man with impressive mobility, Cabral was a star in Switzerland last season, sparking Leeds’ interest – but they couldn’t get a deal done.
Globo Esporte in Cabral’s native Brazil reported in August that Leeds made an offer of €18million (£16.5million) to sign Cabral, with Marcelo Bielsa especially keen.
Basel wanted more money, and Leeds ended up landing Rodrigo instead, so how has Cabral fared with Basel since seeing his potential Premier League move fall through?
Very well, is the answer; In three league games this season, Cabral has already bagged two goals and one assist, showing that he could well replicate last season’s success.
Cabral has also scored twice in two Europa League qualifying games, and there will no doubt be even more interested in his signature come January if he continues to score.
With Patrick Bamford on fire and Rodrigo on board, Leeds moving again seems unlikely now, but they should certainly keep tabs on him just in case they need a striker in the near future.
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