Marcelo Bielsa reportedly wanted Leeds to sign Said Benrahma from Brentford after the Whites gained promotion – and now West Ham are said to be open to offers this summer after failing to prove his worth.
Benhrahma, 26, was hot property in the summer of 2020. Brentford were set to remain in the Championship for another season – despite Benrahma’s 57 goal involvements in his 94 Bees outings.
The Mirror reported in 2020 that Leeds were keen on the Algeria international. However, he moved to the London Stadium – initially on loan – before a £30million (Sun) permanent move came in 2021.
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But after two years under David Moyes, Benrahma has not lived up to the hype. In 81 appearances, he has scored only 12 goals. The Sun report that West Ham are ready to listen to offers for Benrahma this summer.
Bielsa wanted Benrahma: Now West Ham are open to offers
While he has produced 25 goal involvements in his 81 games, only 47 of which have been starts, Moyes is keen to let him go. The Hammers are said to want the full £30million they paid to sign him.
Clubs will have little room to bargain with West Ham – given Benrahma has a contract at the London Stadium until 2026. So, while he has not been as good as fans hoped he would be, he has hardly got a fair chance.
Leeds need an attacking midfielder or winger, especially if Raphinha goes – with reports claiming the Leeds man is now offering himself around, as a move to Barcelona fades. Benrahma might be the ideal replacement.
If Bielsa was looking to sign Benrahma, then Leeds should continue to pursue his interest. He has the flair, the end product and the work rate of Raphinha. If the Brazilian goes, Leeds should consider Benrahma.
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