Leeds ‘likely’ face frustrating wait for next Marcelo Bielsa addition as bid response anticipated

Leeds United are “likely” set for a frustrating wait for Marcelo Bielsa’s next addition as one journalist is anticipating a bid to be turned down.

The Whites have had two main focuses in the January transfer window. One has reportedly been opening discussions with star man Raphinha over a new contract. They want to ward off interest in him from Liverpool.

And signing RB Salzburg’s Brenden Aaronson has been the other priority. He is by far and away their number one target.

A bid of £15m for the 21-year-old was turned down by his Austrian owners. They are reluctant to let him go this month.

Leeds have put pressure on them, though, with their improved offer of £20m. That would quadruple their investment in Aaronson from just a year ago.

What’s more, the American is said to be keen to play under Bielsa. But he doesn’t want to leave his side in the lurch either with Champions League matches upcoming.

The decision ultimately rests in Salzburg’s hands. And it looks as though they are going to stand firm with their no sale stance.

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In a Q&A on The Athletic, the Leeds oracle Phil Hay was asked about the latest on the transfer after Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Newcastle.

He replied: “Sounded likely to me that Salzburg would turn the second bid down too. Haven’t been told that it’s been formally rejected but as we stand, it hasn’t been accepted.”

Raphinha contract talks continue as Chelsea Liverpool and Bayern interested

Raphinha contract talks continue as Leeds United fear Chelsea, Liverpool and Bayern will try to sign the winger

He also added: “If they can get Aaronson in this window then they will take him regardless.

“But even prior to this game, they’ve been clear about the fact that they’ll go for him again in the summer if they can’t get him now. I don’t feel like it’s results dependent.”

It therefore seems that Victor Orta’s best efforts have been in vain.

Leeds will be vindicated, says pundit

However, pundit Paddy Kenny has suggested they will pay off in time thanks to Bielsa’s track record of transfers.

He told Football Insider: “Bielsa is very set in his ways with things like this.

“It might not have happened straight away but Bielsa has clearly signed off on this and it should now happen soon. The club have probably been waiting for him to give the ok for a bid to go in.

“Leeds have needed to strengthen and I think Bielsa has always said he will only sign players he thinks will benefit the first team.

“He’s clearly talented and you have to trust Bielsa when it comes to his methods in the transfer market.”

READ MORE: Truth emerges amid claims Leeds star wants to leave and Euro giants are in contact