Leeds United’s interest in Brenden Aaronson came to light in the January window as per the Athletic, and the American international stole the show last night for RB Salzburg in the UEFA Champions League.
The New Jersey-born playmaker was handed the start in the Austrian powerhouses’ first ever knockout match in the Champions League, and to say Aaronson was the player who caught the eye would be an understatement.
The former Philadelphia Union star assisted the opening goal of the match as Salzburg came within minutes of a historic win against Bayern Munich, who levelled the game at 1-1 late on through 2020 Champions League hero Kingsley Coman.
Indeed, the late goal from the Frenchman was a gut-punch for Salzburg, yet a draw against one of the Champions League favourites is still a commendable result, even more so that the hosts took the game to Bayern, with Aaronson leading the charge for the Austrians.
50 touches, 5 key passes, 1 Messi-equalling record
As per American Soccer Now reporter Brian Sciaretta, Aaronson was all over the place in every positive sense of the phrase. The youngster played every second at the Red Bull Arena, lining up in the no. 10 role behind Karim Adeyemi and Noah Okafor.
With 50 touches and winning half his dribbles, Aaronson was on the ball plenty for Salzburg and caused many a problem for Bayern, with the midfielder making 5 key passes and making the assist for Chukwubuike Adamu to fire the hosts the lead.
And it is this key pass stat that has got many supporters of both Leeds and the USA national team excited, with Aaronson equalling the record of becoming the youngest player to create five chances in a Champions League knockout match since a 20-year-old Lionel Messi did the same feat against Celtic in 2008 as per Squawka.
Aaronson midweek masterclass for Salzburg should excite Leeds fans
At 21-years-old, Aaronson is already proving to be one heck of a talent, with the American taking on one of the best clubs in Europe and coming away as the shining light for Salzburg, and this should all excite Leeds supporters.
Indeed, the Whites need a new creative force, and with the club laying down plans to sign Aaronson in the summer in reports are to be believed, Leeds could soon have one o the most exciting talents in Europe on their books if they play their cards right.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
