Leeds new-boy Diego Llorente comments on Hernandez and Bielsa

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Leeds United have completed the signing of Diego Llorente from Real Sociedad.

The Spanish defender will bolster Marcelo Bielsa’s backline, which has conceded seven Premier League goals already this season.

Llorente wasted no time stating his admiration for Bielsa – calling him the greatest manager in the world when speaking to Leeds’ official website.

He also shared the role Pablo Hernandez played in convincing him to come to Elland Road.

“I was happy when Leeds United got back to the Premier League and to be here is an honour and it’s a good challenge for me,” said Llorente.

“I talked with Pablo Hernandez and he told me about the team, the city and all of the things he said were good, so the decision for me was very easy and I am excited to be here.

“For me the Premier League is the competition that is the most important in the world of football and it is a challenge to be here and I’m looking forward to getting started and helping my teammates.

“Marcelo Bielsa was also a key factor, for me he is the greatest manager in the world and it is an honour, I’ve come to learn as much as possible from him.”

Bielsa has already landed Robin Koch, but the German international has made a shaky start to life in English football.

He’s given away two penalties in two Premier League games and that might see Llorente be thrown in early on in his Leeds career.

It’s clear to see the influence of Bielsa on Llorente’s decision to join Leeds and his international experience should rub off on the entire squad.

Llorente has five caps for Spain, having made his debut in May 2016 against Bosnia and Herzegovina.