Football FanCast

Leeds must avoid signing Juventus star Douglas Costa

Leeds United are heading for an expensive mistake by signing Juventus star Douglas Costa on a free transfer.

Leeds United would be heading for an expensive mistake by making a move for Juventus star Douglas Costa in this summer's transfer window.

What's the story?

Reports in recent weeks and months have suggested that Marcelo Bielsa's side could be interested in signing the Brazil international, and now there has been an update on his potential exit from Juventus this summer. According to Italian publication Calciomercato, the Bianconeri are willing to let the 31-cap star leave on a free transfer, despite his current deal with the Turin club not actually expiring until next year. The report added that Juventus see no long-term future for Costa in Italy, while his massive wages are also considered as a stumbling block.

Radrizzani must block a move

Despite not being in the best of form this season - he has managed just one goal all campaign - Costa's technical ability is unquestionable, with former Juventus coach Maurizio Sarri raving about the kind of game-changer he can be. He said: "He's an extraordinary weapon for this time of the season, when teams are most at risk of dropping off in the second half. He can change a game with his introduction. Let's not tell him that...He understands, but we have to keep him motivated and start him every now and then." While he may still be able to offer a lot to Leeds, the financial implications of doing such a deal could cause some serious problems at Elland Road. Earning a reported £195,000 per week, even Costa's current wages would comfortably place him as Leeds' highest earner - for context, the man who occupies that spot right now, summer signing Rodrigo, is on £105,000 per week. While Marcelo Bielsa will be keen to strengthen his squad, the one thing he won't want is any 'big-time Charlies' or those players who come in for one big payday. It would also send out a very questionable message to the rest of the club's players who have been playing week-in and week-out for Leeds and might set a dangerous precedent on future negotiations over contract extensions. If Costa comes in and immediately takes that top earner's status, what's to stop the rest of Leeds' key players to come knocking on the door asking for parity or even something more than what the Brazilian is on? It's exactly why Andrea Radrizzani must block any Leeds move for this Juventus star this summer. Meanwhile, Leeds must unleash this academy starlet who has shades of Raphinha...