The 20-year-old is in need of a change of scenary though Radrizzani’s relationship with Villarreal could give Leeds United a chance.
New Leeds United co-owner Andrea Radrizzani may not hog the headlines like his Massimo Cellino but his impact behind the scenes is already starting to bear fruit at Elland Road.
As Whites’ assistant boss Pep Clotet told Marca, Leeds’ January loan deal for Alfonso Pedraza was made all the more easier by the fact that Radrizzani has a very close relationship with La Liga high-flyers Villarreal.
Therefore, such impressive connections opens up a whole world of possibilities for Leeds. If they can attract Pedraza, one of the most talented players in Villarreal’s esteemed academy, what chance they return to the Castellan coast with their eyes on another fleet-footed youngster in the summer?
In 20-year-old winger Matias Nahuel, the Yellow Submarine possess a hugely talented prospect whose fledging career is already at a crossroads. Despite breaking into the first-team last season, the one-time Spain Under-21 international was farmed out to Real Betis on a two-year loan in the summer.
If such a move was intended to progress his development, it’s fair to say the opposite has occurred. Featuring in just 117 La Liga minutes, Nahuel has earned more red cards than goals or assists.
Furthermore, while he’s been toiling away in Andalucía, Villarreal have hardly missed him, lying just six points behind Atletico Madrid in fourth. And it would hardly be a surprise if Betis were to bring a premature end to his two-season deal at the end of the campaign.
That is where Leeds, aided by Radrizzani’s influence could step in. Hadi Sacko and Modou Barrow are only at Elland Road on temporary deals, meaning there could be a vacancy opening up in the squad this summer.
Furthermore, he is not merely another hard-working, touchline-treading winger a la the aforementioned duo.
Nahuel is a clever, creative player capable of drifting in from the flanks and wreacking havoc in central areas. He has a subtle touch and quick feet, meaning he could alleviate some of the creative burden weighing down compatriot Pablo Hernandez.
Gary Monk has already demonstrated his penchant for helping talented players kick-start their careers and Nahuel could be the latest beneficiary while adding an extra dash of creativity to a workmanlike midfield.
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