Leeds old boy urges club to relaunch bid for major target on one condition

Rodrigo de Paul TEAMtalk

Former Leeds United goalkeeper Nigel Martyn has urged the club to reignite their pursuit of Rodrigo De Paul in January – if finances allow.

Udinese midfielder De Paul was a major target for Leeds in the summer transfer window. The Argentine international has been one of Serie A’s standout players in his position over recent years.

It seems likely that De Paul will move on in the near future – and a move to the Premier League was on the cards in the summer.

It even appeared that De Paul wanted the move to Leeds, but the two clubs could not agree a fee. Indeed, recent reports have revealed just how close they came to signing him.

There have been rumours that Leeds could go back in for De Paul in January. It’s a move that Martyn believes they must make.

“If you’ve got the money, and you can afford to do it, the quality of player is what you need in this division,” he told The Boot Room. “But if you’re going to spend that money, he has to play.

“He has to perform. It is seeing enough of him on the pitch and performing, and they will be looking at him the whole time and probably making that decision.

“They see him more than we do. He would definitely be a good addition if the finances allow it.”

 

 

The Udinese number 10 has scored two goals and added one assist from nine appearances so far this season. Last term, he provided seven goals and six assists.

De Paul remains under contract with Udinese until 2024 after signing an extension last year.

Leeds make no secret of De Paul interest

Last month, Leeds’ head of European recruitment made a major admission about their pursuit of De Paul.

“There was actually some contact. We talked about it, but then we decided to focus on other options,” Gabriel Ruiz said.

He did not confirm whether or not Leeds would go back in for De Paul in a future transfer window.

READ MORE: Leeds disappointed as Inter bid to replace Eriksen with top Bielsa fancy