Leeds United are reportedly eyeing a stunning move for Real Betis’ Andres Guardado, La Liga’s second highest assist-maker this season.
A number of disgruntled Leeds United fans have accused owner Andrea Radrizzani of lacking a bit of ambition in the last few months as many of the club’s affordable summer signings struggled to make the required impact.
But it’s fair to say the Italian owner would be making one hell of a statement by splashing out £5.2 million on a proven international footballer with 142 caps to his name.
El Gol Digital claimed on Thursday that Leeds were plotting a hugely ambitious move for Mexican ace Andres Guardado in the New Year. At the age of 31, paying such a hefty fee for a veteran player could be seen as a risk.
But anyone who has watched Guardado over the last few seasons will tell you that he has plenty left in the locker. Not only did he inspire PSV to successive Eredivisie titles with his masterful performances from the centre of the park, he has made a sublime start to life at Real Betis since moving to La Liga in the summer.
With six assists in 11 starts, only Celta Vigo’s Danish international winger Pione Sisto has set up more goals this season. And his Betis boss, Quique Setien, has been suitably impressed by the evergreen El Tri hero.
“He’s probably the best player I’ve managed,” Setien, who impressed with his work at Las Palmas between 2015 and 2017, told ESPN. “He is a player who helps you a lot.
“First of all, you know that he is an honest, hardworking guy. Regardless of the type of game, he always goes onto the field, gives the maximum, and delivers.”
You could make the case that Guardado would be the most naturally gifted footballer in the Championship if he does indeed swap Betis for Elland Road in January.
But it remains to be seen whether this bolt-from-the-blue transfer story is anything more than just that – a story.
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