The Express claim Victor Orta has changed Leeds United’s January plans in order to sign RedBull Salzburg midfielder Brenden Aaronson. Initially, the club were not planning on spending any money in the January window.
Indeed, the only player to arrive at Elland Road this month is teenage striker Mateo Joseph Fernandez. Although he cost in the region of £1.5million, he will be a regular in the Under-23 side under Mark Jackson.
Having spent more than £50million on Junior Firpo, Jack Harrison and Dan James in the summer – Leeds were not expected to go big in January. But Orta has changed his mind, and that is because of USA star Aaronson.
The 21-year-old is shining for Salzburg, already boasting 22 goal involvements in 51 games since his move last January. Orta believes he is a perfect fit for the club and their long-term vision.
An offer of £15million has been made, but Salzburg have rejected and the Express report the Austrian club are desperate to keep him. However, Leeds remain in talks and are widely expected to make a second off.
Leeds eye Aaronson: Salzburg midfielder is just what Whites need
Ask the majority of Leeds fans what the club need in window, and most will tell you that it is an attacking midfielder. Since promotion, Leeds have used the likes of Rodrigo, Tyler Roberts or Mateusz Klich in Aaronson’s position.
Klich is slowly improving his form but there were times last season where he looked a shadow of the player Leeds fans know and love. Roberts and Rodrigo are naturally strikers – so an eight is required.
Aaronson is the ideal eight – and Orta thinks so, too. He can also play deeper as a six, like a Stuart Dallas or an Adam Forshaw – but also more advanced as a 10, like Klich has done in recent weeks. The perfect addition.
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