De Paul stance made clear to Leeds as transfer demands are laid out

Udinese have informed Rodrigo de Paul’s suitors, including Leeds United, they have no intention of selling the playmaker in the January window.

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

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

As such, it’s been claimed they could go back in for De Paul in January.

The player even sent the rumour mill into overdrive this weekend when the player dropped something of a transfer hint.

However, that speculation has been very quickly difused by Udinese sporting director Pierpaolo Marino.

However, there remains hope for Leeds and fellow suitors Inter Milan and Juventus.

That’s after Marino suggested if De Paul was to leave, it’d be in the summer as opposed January.

“The Pozzo family never sell Udinese top players in January. So I can only confirm that if he does leave, if he receives the right offers, then it’ll be next summer,” Marino told DAZN.

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“Only one thing is for sure, that the principal transfers will be made after the opening six games of 2021. That’s when we’ll see players available will seek out their new destinations.”

De Paul price made clear

One thing that prevented Leeds doing a deal in summer 2020 was Udinese’s asking price. The Serie A side were said to be seeking around €35m – €40m for De Paul. That fee though was beyond what United were reportedly willing to pay.

There was talk at the time that Udinese could accept a reduced fee with the rest made up in cash incentives.

However, Spanish transfer outlet Todofijaches has reported what they believe to be Udinese’s asking price. They claim De Paul will only be sold if any club meets their €35m asking price. Furthermore, they the fee must be agreed in its entirity, with no initial fees or add-ons.

The Argentinian has three goals and two assists in Serie A this term.

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