Leeds given green light to sign versatile attacker on one condition
Leeds United have been boosted in their pursuit of Hertha Berlin forward Matheus Cunha, although the asking price remains an obstacle, according to reports.
After an impressive ninth-placed finish in their first season back in the top flight, Leeds are looking to consolidate in the Premier League next season. It will be an important summer as they tweak their squad to keep the momentum going in 2021-22. And it seems Cunha is one of their top targets.
News of their interest in the Brazilian emerged earlier this month. It was reported that Marcelo Bielsa has been following the player for a long time and could ask Leeds to make a move.
However, it then followed that Hertha were set to ask for a steep asking price. It could take as much as €36m to prise him away.
In fact, fresh information from Bild reveals that Hertha want a fee closer to €40m. But the report claims Leeds are undeterred and know that Cunha can move if they meet that figure.
Leeds have made their interest known and are aiming to beat off competition from Monaco, Atalanta and Napoli.
They have also learned that Cunha wants to represent Brazil at the Olympics in the summer. If that happens, he will miss out on some essential pre-season training. However, it would not rule a move out.
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Cunha appeals to Leeds because of his versatility. He is able to play as a left winger, attacking midfielder or centre-forward.
The 22-year-old remains under contract until 2025 but it seems Hertha are now preparing to sell. Leeds will be hoping to win the race for his signature.
Leeds keen on Cagliari deal
Another player to be linked with Leeds on a regular basis recently is Cagliari midfielder Nahitan Nandez.
The 25-year-old Uruguayan is viewed as one of Serie A’s best midfielders. He helped his club comfortably avoid the drop this season, catching the eye with his displays in defensive midfield.
Nandez can offer something going forwards too, having contributed two goals and two assists this season.
He has a €36m exit clause in his deal, so would also not come cheap.
But amid rival interest from Roma, Cagliari owner Tommaso Giulini would rather sell Nandez to Leeds due to his strong relationship with Andrea Radrizzani.
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