According to The Mirror (31/08, p48), Leeds United have turned to Udinese’s Rodrigo De Paul because their pursuit of Said Benrahma was growing frustrating.
It’s claimed that Leeds are in talks with Udinese about a deal for De Paul, which could end up costing around £30million.
The report notes that director of football Victor Orta has grown frustrated in attempting to pursue Brentford talent Benrahma.
The attention is now turning to De Paul, with Leeds pushing to break their transfer record for a second time this summer by signing him.
Bielsa is also understood to be a fan of his compatriot, though it’s something of a surprise to hear that he is seen as an alternative to Benrahma.
Benrahma predominantly plays as a winger, cutting in from the left flank onto his right foot to provide goals and assists.
Whilst De Paul can play there, his most recent campaign was spent almost exclusively as a central midfielder, sometimes as a number 10.
De Paul is more of a central threat, another creative force to take pressure off Pablo Hernandez rather than a natural winger – but it’s all about adding creativity and goals, with De Paul now prioritised over Benrahma.
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