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Better for Leeds to sign winger Pedraza now or risk missing out

Leeds' Alfonso Pedraza celebrates scoring their third goal (Reuters)
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Leeds United may want to act early if looking to bring back Alfonso Pedraza.

Leeds' Alfonso Pedraza celebrates scoring their third goalLeeds’ Alfonso Pedraza celebrates scoring their third goal

Leeds United outlined their intention to bring back Alfonso Pedraza next season by submitting a loan offer to Villarreal last month, Spanish newspaper AS reported.

This was rejected by the La Liga side, and Leeds’ chance of a permanent deal could disappear altogether if they are not careful.

Pedraza has been named in the Spain under-21 squad for this month’s European Championships.

Leeds' Alfonso Pedraza celebrates scoring their third goalLeeds’ Alfonso Pedraza celebrates scoring

This gives him an opportunity to raise his profile, and catch the eye of other teams with his performances.

The Independent reported a year ago that Everton were keen, while AS‘ report claims Villarreal anticipate interest from other La Liga clubs.

Pedraza scored one goal on loan for Leeds after joining on loan during the second half of the season, and earned a place in Garry Monk’s plans.

Monk has left the club but his assistant Pep Clotet remains for now, while the appointment of Spaniard Victor Orta as technical director should make him acutely aware of Pedraza’s situation.

Pedraza did not set the world alight during his spell at Elland Road but his performances did show promise.

If Leeds do not act now to try and tie him down to a permanent deal then they risk losing out altogether if he goes onto star at the under-21 championships, a tournament which in recent years has given the likes of Juan Mata, Thiago Alcantara and Alvaro Morata a platform to become top stars.

Queens Park Rangers Darnell Furlong and Leeds United's Alfonso PedrazaQueens Park Rangers Darnell Furlong and Leeds United’s Alfonso Pedraza