An update has emerged in Leeds' pursuit of Cagliari central midfielder Nahitan Nandez...
What's the talk?
According to Centro Trentuno, as transcribed by TBRF, Leeds chief Victor Orta has flown to Italy to discuss a deal for Cagliari midfielder Nahitan Nandez, with the player having recently returned from the Copa America.
The report claims that a deal could be close for the South American gem, whilst a separate report earlier this month suggested that he will cost the club £26m (€30m).
Although, it remains to be seen whether or not Leeds are willing to go as high as that for Nandez or if they have been able to negotiate a lower figure.
Bielsa will be over the moon
Marcelo Bielsa will be over the moon with this update as it seems as though the club are closing in on an agreement for the midfielder.
The Leeds head coach could be about to add a talented, versatile, player to his squad and that should leave him delighted as it will give him another quality option to pick from in the Premier League next season.
Nandez has proven his ability to compete at the top level in Italy and has shown that he can operate in a number of roles, which could be a factor in terms of why Bielsa would love him at Elland Road. Serie A journalist Conor Clancy once labelled him as a “machine” and highlighted the versatility within his game that could please the Argentine coach.
"Anywhere Bielsa wants to play him, he’d do a job. I like him a lot.
“I think he’s only about five foot seven, but you wouldn’t know it if you just watched clips of him, he is a little bit of a machine. He’s so powerful but at the same time, has really, really good ball control.”
In Serie A last season, Nandez played in eight separate positions across the defence and midfield for Cagliari whilst still averaging a solid WhoScored rating of 6.72. This shows that he is reliable and consistent and that he has the tactically flexibility and knowledge to go out and do a job wherever he is needed, which could make him a key asset for Bielsa.
Injury at right-back? Nandez can fill in.
Right-winger is suspended? Nandez can come in.
Klich isn't doing enough in midfield? Nandez can come in.
There are a plethora of scenarios that could lead to the 25-year-old being a big player for Leeds next season and that is why Bielsa will be delighted that it appears as though he is closing in on a switch to Yorkshire.
AND in other news, Imagine him and Bamford: Leeds can land dream gem who has “something special” for £30m...