Leeds United are said to be interested in signing Iturraspe this summer.
Leeds United are being linked with a move for Andre Iturraspe (AS).
But what should those of a Whites persuasion know about the Atheltic Bilbao midfielder?
HITC Sport has the lowdown, here…
What sort of player is he?
Described by AS as “irregular and special, capable of dazzling (with) his vision and clairvoyance”, Iturraspe usually operates in a role similar to that of Kalvin Phillips at Leeds this season, protecting the back four and setting up attacks with his excellent passing range. He is, however, taller than Phillips at 6ft 1 and, although no slouch, he is languid in style, leading to accusations of laziness.
Where’s he been?
Born in Abadiño, around 20 miles south of Bilbao, Iturraspe has spent the bulk of his 30 years on Athletic’s books – six as a youth and 11 now at first-team level. He’s played 231 times in Spain’s top flight, 48 times in Europe (including five in the Champions League) and twice for Spain.
Did he play under Marcelo Bielsa?
Other than Ernesto Valverde, the Barcelona head coach, Bielsa is the manager under whom Iturraspe has played most of his football in Bilbao – 99 of 319 appearances. The Basque became an undisputed regular under the Leeds boss, who, according to AS, used to call him ‘El Flaco’ (the Skinny One).
Why hasn’t he played much this season?
AS claim that although Iturraspe is “perhaps the most talented Athletic player”, he is not a priority in the renovation plan of Rafael Alkorta, the Liga club’s sporting director. They add that a midfield trio of Beñat, Dani García and Mikel San José has been favoured by Gaizka Garitano, the head coach, and suggest he has been penalised due to “passing errors”.
So what’s his situation?
Out of contract this summer, AS say that although there have been rumours Iturraspe could retire, the player still hopes to “vindicate” himself elsewhere. A move abroad could help him to achieve that goal, and England – perhaps with Bielsa at Leeds – is said to be shaping up.
Would Iturraspe be a good addition for Leeds?
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