Pablo Hernandez has been speaking to Radio Marca about Helder Costa, who he played alongside at Leeds before departing for Castellón.
What’s the story?
Well, the 36-year-old may no longer be a Leeds player, although he is still keeping an eye on Costa’s form during his time away from Elland Road.
The £16m forward has started to come to life at the Mestalla, after initially finding life tough in La Liga.
Hernandez has certainly been left impressed, as he showered the 27-year-old with praise when speaking to Radio Marca.
As quoted by SuperSport, Hernandez said: “I’m not surprised because I’ve known him well for two years, and I know what he can give.
“He is a very quick player in attack, he is very unbalanced, and on either flank, he does a lot of damage to the full-backs and, defensively, you saw the other day how he helped.”
It’s good to hear that Costa is starting to enjoy life at Valencia, although his upturn in form doesn’t exactly benefit Leeds or Marcelo Bielsa.
Why?
Well, Victor Orta allowed Valencia to negotiate an option to buy in the loan agreement, so Costa will leave Leeds in 2022 if the Spanish side opt to activate that clause (BBC).
Did Leeds make a mistake with Helder Costa?
After ten Premier League games, it’s become apparent that Leeds will struggle to replicate the heroics of last season.
Dan James is yet to score since his £25m move from Manchester United, while Jack Harrison is also goalless in the Premier League this term.
Patrick Bamford has unfortunately been injured, so Raphinha has had to step up and become the talisman for Leeds.
In our view, the stuttering form of James and Harrison begs the question: should Leeds have kept Costa at Thorp Arch?
While he’s shining for Valencia, a top side in Spain, the wide men at Leeds are struggling, so perhaps they could’ve benefitted from the competition.
Additionally, Orta may have made a mistake in allowing Valencia to have an option to buy.
If Costa goes on to become one of the best players in La Liga come the end of the season, Leeds will be gutted to lose him.
Nevertheless, this is all hypothetical – only time will tell if Bielsa and Orta made the correct decision.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
