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Our View: ‘Ruthless’ talent could be the next Pablo Hernandez at Leeds

Photo by Sylvain Lefevre/Getty Images
Photo by Sylvain Lefevre/Getty Images
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LILLE, FRANCE - NOVEMBER 23: Brenden Aaronson of FC Salzburg in action during the UEFA Champions League group G match between Lille OSC and RB Salzburg at Stade Pierre-Mauroy on November 23, 2021 in Lille, France. (Photo by Sylvain Lefevre/Getty Images)
Photo by Sylvain Lefevre/Getty Images

The January transfer window is nearing the closing stages, and Leeds United have reportedly attempted to sign one of Europe’s most interesting talents, RB Salzburg star Brenden Aaronson.

As reported by the Athletic, the American international has been subject to a £15m bid from the Yorkshire side, which has been turned down by the Austrian giants. However, Leeds could return with a new offer in the future.

On paper, the move might seem like an unusual one for Leeds. But scratch below the surface, and it all make sense why Marcelo Bielsa is eager on signing Aaronson this transfer window.

Aaronson brings what Leeds have been missing this season

CINCINNATI, OH - NOVEMBER 12: Brenden Aaronson #11 of the United States looks to the ball during a game between Mexico and USMNT at TQL Stadium on November 12, 2021 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Brad Smith/ISI Photos/Getty Images)
Photo by Brad Smith/ISI Photos/Getty Images

A dynamic forward who can play out wide or in the midfield, Aaronson is one of a new generation of American players who have exploded onto the scene in recent months and headed to Europe to showcase their talents.

With the Philadelphia Union manager Jim Curtain labelling the youngster as ‘ruthless’ on the pitch, Aaronson has been a star wherever he has plied his trade from MLS to the UEFA Champions League to the international stage with the US.

And for Leeds, Aaronson fits the bill for what they have been missing this season. Barring genius displays from Raphinha, the Whites have struggled to replicate the speed and determination Bielsa’s side played last campaign.

Indeed, Aaronson is ideal for what Leeds need in the short term. Moreover, the 21-year-old could fill in the void left by Elland Road icon Pablo Hernandez, who wowed the club with his trickery and technical quality out on the wing.

Whites can make huge statement of intent with Aaronson

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 16: Marcelo Bielsa, Manager of Leeds United walks out prior to the Premier League match between West Ham United and Leeds United at London Stadium on January 16, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images

Quick-footed and intelligent, Aaronson could well be the heir to Hernandez many Leeds fans never thought they would see anytime soon. Yet if the Whites can pull off this signing, it would be a huge sign of ambition from the club hierarchy.

After all, Aaronson has been tipped by many to be one of the leading players for the US for many years to come, which could make the winger a so-called ‘franchise player’ should Leeds win the race for the playmaker.

At 21, the youngster has the world at his feet. And for Leeds, Aaronson could be one heck of a signing if the Yorkshire side can pull off a deal with Salzburg for the talented American.