Victor Orta has told the Yorkshire Evening Post that Leeds United were happy to solve their need of a left-back early in the transfer market with Junior Firpo arriving from Barcelona.
The Whites had to strengthen Marcelo Bielsa’s left-sided full-back options after Ezgjan Alioski left at the end of his contract. Leeds confirmed they offered the North Macedonian new terms to extend his stay at Elland Road.
Alioski has since joined Al-Ahli on a two-year contract and has scored once in two outings for the Saudi side. United, meanwhile, purchased Firpo from Barcelona for £13m on July 6, with the Dominican agreeing to sign a four-year deal.
Bringing Firpo to Leeds within a week of Alioski officially leaving the club delighted Orta. The Whites Director of Football acknowledges the position was an issue entering the summer market. And getting him in early was the best option for all.
“The situation of the left-back was an issue from the start of the market,” Orta said. “We were really happy to solve it quickly, and allow Junior to start a proper pre-season with our style of football.”
Firpo yet to show his all at Leeds since Orta struck Barcelona deal
While Firpo enjoyed a full pre-season with Leeds, the ex-Barcelona full-back has not shown his all since Orta agreed terms. Bielsa awarded the 25-year-old his Premier League debut on the opening day as a half-time substitute against Manchester United.
The Argentine then started the former Real Betis star against Everton, but he only lasted an hour before coming off. Firpo then missed Leeds’ visit to Burnley as he tested positive for Covid-19 prior to the international break.
Bielsa will hope Firpo recovers for Liverpool’s trip to Leeds on September 12 and can show why Orta signed him. Having been unable to grow into the Red Devils affair, before losing his positioning and struggling against Everton.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
