The Athletic claim Leeds United were offered new Everton signing midfielder Donny van de Beek in the January window – by intermediaries. The Dutch star left Manchester United for Everton, on deadline day.
Van de Beek, 24, has managed just four Premier League starts in 18 months at Manchester United – since joining the club in the summer of 2020. He has clocked up 50 appearances, but only started 19 times for United.
A drop in confidence and momentum has seen the Netherlands man look a shadow of his former self – the one that ruled the roost at Ajax. He needed a move on deadline day and got it – joining Frank Lampard’s Everton.
He has a point to prove at Everton, although a move is only a dry loan until the summer where he will then return to Old Trafford. The Athletic report that intermediaries contacted Leeds over a move to Elland Road in January.
That is, along with Tottenham star Harry Winks. But Leeds decided against a move for the Dutch star – and Winks – failing to bring in any senior players to add to the first team. That is, despite bids for Brenden Aaronson.
Leeds overlook van de Beek: Will Whites regret Everton ace?
Leeds desperately needed a number 10, hence the interest in USA midfielder Aaronson. But two bids of £15million and £20million were rejected by Salzburg – who are desperate to keep him until the summer.
Van de Beek looks, on the face of it, to be a player that would suit Bielsa’s side. A player that can play as a 10, or more reserved like a 6 or an 8. A bit like Mateusz Klich. But he does earn £120,000 a week, as per Spotrac.
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