Ecuadorian outlet Bolavip claim Leeds have made a £4.2million offer to sign LAFC midfielder Jose Cifuentes after interest emerged in the 23-year-old this week – but they face competition from Leicester, Brighton and Napoli.
Cifuentes, 23, has emerged onto the radar of a handful of European clubs after a wonderful 2022 MLS campaign. He has been a crucial part of a side that boasts Gareth Bale and Giorgio Chiellini, providing the energy in midfield.
It sees LAFC sit top of the Eastern Conference in the MLS, and with a real chance of winning the entire league. Cifuentes has played 26 times for LAFC this season, scoring six goals and boasting seven assists. He has been superb.
Reports surfaced earlier this week that Leeds wanted him, with a fee of £6million said to tempt the MLS side. Now, Bolavip say Leeds have made an offer – though it is only worth £4.2million. They are not the only club pursuing him.
Indeed, Leicester and Brighton also want to bring the Ecuador international to the Premier League. Napoli, one of Italy’s biggest clubs, are also looking at a potential move. Leeds, though, having made an offer, are on pole.
Leeds have made Cifuentes offer: Brighton, Leicester, Napoli keen
Given the previous report stating that LAFC rate Cifuentes in the region of £6million, this looks as if an offer will be rejected. Whether a compromise can be agreed between the two clubs, remains to be seen.
The danger of Leeds looking to lowball LAFC with their initial offer is that another club can come in. Brighton are renowned for their scouting network of South American players. Leicester need cheap options given their issues.
Italian clubs, meanwhile, have started to utilise the MLS market more and more. So, Leeds must make a decision whether to up their offer to fend off interest from the three other clubs. That decision must be a quick one.
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