Key factor sees Leeds tipped as most likely side to sign Real Madrid veteran

Marcelo, Sergio Ramos

Leeds are seen by one observer as the side most likely to sign departing Real Madrid veteran Marcelo this summer.

The left side of defence has emerged as a transfer priority for the Whites this summer. The future of Ezgjan Alioski remains undecided, despite reports he could sign a new deal. Meanwhile, Stuart Dallas has enjoyed his move to midfield, scoring important goals – including against Manchester City – last season.

As a result, Huesca’s Javi Galan is one target for a new signing there. The Spaniard’s name emerged after Stade Brest’s Romain Perraud, whose transfer links with Leeds fell through.

More recently, though, Madrid stalwart Marcelo has had links with a move to Elland Road. Reports claim Leeds are fighting Everton for the Brazilian, who does not fit into new boss Carlo Ancelotti’s plans.

With the 33-year-old’s deal due to expire next season, it’s reported Real could allow him to move on this summer for a pretty modest fee.

And with Leeds and Everton reportedly lurking, Paddy Kenny genuinely can see the Brazilian ending up at Leeds.

And the former Leeds and Sheffield United keeper says that’s all down to the lure of playing for Marcelo Bielsa.

“I rate this. What a player he has been and what a career he’s had,” Kenny told Football Insider.

“With Bielsa, they’ve got a chance at pulling that one off. He’d be an unbelievable signing, for me.

“Everton have stalled a bit at the moment. But Leeds are up-and-coming. So as it stands, it would have to be Leeds because they’re a club on the up compared to where Everton are at the moment.

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“They play with a lot of freedom as well which Marcelo will like.”

Marcelo has made 528 appearances for Madrid since his move from Fluminense in 2007.

However, his game time has diminished of late and he only made 16 La Liga outings last term, 19 overall.

Whelan also believes in Marcelo deal

The prospect of Marcelo signing for Leeds has also been given the thumbs up by another Leeds old boy in Noel Whelan.

“That would be a massive coup if Leeds can pull that one off,” Whelan said.

“He’s a very professional player who has played at the top level pretty much since he started his career.

“That would be very exciting. He’s someone who can pass on a lot of experience to the younger players there.”

Whelan added: “But he’s someone who no doubt would improve that left-hand side. He loves to get forward, he’s a great defender and a set-piece specialist.

“If that’s something the club are looking at doing, that’s very exciting for Leeds fans and fans of the Premier League.”

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