Leeds fans would love a bit more South American flair to their team next season, and Boca Juniors midfielder Nahitan Nandez would be just the man to control the tempo of Marcelo Bielsa’s side.
The 23-year-old has turned heads this season, particularly after his stunning through ball led to an assist in the Copa Libertadores final against River Plate. If Leeds get promoted, Tuttomercatoweb are reporting he could be one of the first players on the club’s wish list.
Indeed, the success of Uruguayan teammate Lucas Torreira at Arsenal after his move in the summer has increased confidence that talent from South America can move straight to England and adapt quickly. While it hasn’t always been an easy transition, it seems that is becoming less of a problem in today’s world.
Leeds would certainly need him to do that if they’re in the Premier League next season.
He won’t come cheap though, and rated at £11.25m on Transfermarkt he’d be Leeds most expensive signing in 18 years. It’d be worth the money if the Whites did go up though, because he’d be sure to control the tempo of possession and dictate the press to win the ball back quickly.
It would be a major statement of a signing if he did come to Elland Road, and that’s just what the club need to announce themselves back into England’s top flight. It’d send the message that Leeds intend to invest in players to stay up and play the same, attacking football while doing it.
Kalvin Phillips has been doing a solid job in that position this season, but Nandez would simply be an upgrade, and one that would force competition in the position and deepen the squad depth, which they’ll need for a long, gruelling season back in the Premier League.
Leeds could only dream of making this signing if they’re promoted this season, so they’d better return after the international break stronger than they left for it.
Leeds fans, who do you think your club should sign in the summer? Join the discussion by commenting below.
