Jesse Marsch arrival gives Leeds huge lift in pursuit of dream Victor Orta transfer target

Leeds United have been given a big boost in their efforts to land their No 1 summer transfer target thanks to the arrival of new manager Jesse Marsch.

The Whites are preparing for a new era after American Marsch was appointed as Marcelo Bielsa’s replacement. The Argentine coach was axed on Sunday after three-and-a-half years in charge at Elland Road. And while the decision to axe Bielsa has not gone down well with all fans, chairman Andrea Radrizzani says he felt he was left with little choice.

As it stands, Marsch will hope to hit the ground running at Leeds. Indeed, in his first interview as Whites manager, Marsch has outlined his vision for the Elland Road club.

Marsch now has 12 matches to help pull Leeds clear of the relegation zone. A run of five defeats in six games – many of them by heavy scorelines – leaves Leeds just two points clear of the bottom three.

And with a trip to Leicester first on the horizon, Marsch will need to hit the ground running at Leeds.

Should they survive, Leeds will also face a huge summer too. Not only are 49 Enterprises due to take full control, but there is also likely to be big changes to playing personnel.

First up, Leeds will look to push through the summer signing of Brenden Aaronson.

The Whites zoned in on their midfield as a vital area to add to in the January transfer window. While Daniel James and Junior Firpo bolstered attack and defence in the summer, midfield remains an area of big concern.

Aaronson the top target

As such, Leeds director of football Victor Orta has identified RB Salzburg star Aaronson as a key target.

Could Marcelo Bielsa be the next Manchester United manager

Could Marcelo Bielsa be the next Manchester United manager as his Leeds United contract expires this summer

United saw their opening £15million bid for the USA international swiftly rejected. That was soon followed by an increased offer of £20m, with Salzburg once again standing firm.

Indeed, they refused to sell with their round-of-16 Champions League match against Bayern Munich on the horizon.

However, we understand Aaronson has let it be known to Salzburg officials that he wants to make the move. As such, we believe Orta has a growing confidence that Aaronson will make the move this summer.

Jesse Marsch arrival boosts Leeds chances

And while other clubs are likely to be interested in the player, there is a growing feeling that Salzburg are ready to cash in.

Indeed, the likes of AC Milan, Borussia Monchengladbach, Eintracht Frankfurt, Hoffenheim and Freiburg have also been touted as suitors.

However, Leeds will continue to push hard to bring the American to Leeds.

And the presence of Marsch in the dug-out will only further their chances. Marsch and Aaronson worked together for six months at the Austrian club, prior to Marsch’s switch to RB Leipzig.

And speaking before Marsch’s appointment was confirmed, transfer insider Dean Jones claims his appointment at Leeds would boost their chances of signing Aaronson.

Jones told GIVEMESPORT: “I think if Marsch were to go to Leeds, he would jump at the chance to do so.”

Marsch handed Aaronson 25 appearances during his tenrure, with the American responding with seven goals and five assists.

READ MORE: Antonio Conte reveals ‘hurt’ at sacking of Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa