Leeds and Bielsa clashed over January deals, possibly including £40m star

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Some Leeds United figures clashed with Marcelo Bielsa after the Whites boss turned down opportunities to sign new players offered to the club during the January transfer window.

That’s according to The Athletic, who report Elland Road chiefs wanted Bielsa to accept the players whom intermediaries had presented. However, the Argentine stood firm in wanting a small, close-knit squad as the West Yorkshire outfit strive to avoid relegation this season.

A few within the Leeds hierarchy especially wanted Bielsa to accept transfers for those who were made available for loans. Yet the Whites boardroom eventually agreed with the head coach come deadline day that he already has enough quality at the club to avoid the drop.

Leeds sit 15th in the Premier League table after 23 games, having only won five times so far this season. The Whites have also lost 10 times and taken eight draws, while scoring just 27 goals to 46 conceded. Only Norwich have allowed more goals with 50 shipped in 24 games.

Patrick Bamford’s persistent absence has not aided Leeds’ efforts this term, either. The 28-year-old, who scored 17 goals and offered eight assists last season, has only featured once for 22-minutes since September. Bielsa also noted he ‘hasn’t improved’ earlier this month.

Van de Beek has already shown Leeds what Bielsa passed up on

Prior reports by The Athletic have also noted Bielsa turned down chances for Leeds to loan Tottenham’s Harry Winks and Manchester United’s Donny van de Beek during the January transfer window. The Argentine felt neither player was an ideal fit for a mid-season move.

Leeds made funds available for Bielsa to strengthen his engine room, while intermediaries presented both players for temporary deals. The Yorkshire Evening Post also noted Bielsa snubbed Winks as he questioned the Spurs ace meeting his demanding standards 100%.

Van de Beek, meanwhile, ultimately sealed a half-season move to Everton on deadline day. He has already played twice for the Toffees, while Manchester United’s £40m signing also impressed against Leeds as Frank Lampard’s side ran out 3-0 victors last weekend.