Javi Galan reportedly packed his bags ahead of a move to Leeds United back in June 2021 as Victor Orta looked to solve our left-back problems – now, the Spaniard is pushing to start for Atletico Madrid.
Galan, 28, is establishing himself as one of the most-consistent left-backs in La Liga football. In the summer of 2021, he actually moved to Celta Vigo from Huesca. He impressed with Celta, for two years.
But a month before his move to Celta, Mundo Deportivo said that he had ‘packed his bags’ ahead of a move to Leeds after talks with Victor Orta. But, a move did not materialise and he joined Celta instead.
Galan played 79 times for Celta over two years, having a hand in eight goals and that form saw him try his luck under Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid in the summer. He has been in and out of the side.
Unfortunately for Galan, at the moment, Atletico also have Cesar Azpilicueta and Samuel Lino on their left flank. He has made five appearances for Simeone, his only start coming in a 3-0 loss to Valencia.
Javi Galan almost joined Leeds in 2021; Now at Atletico Madrid
But there is no doubt that Galan will get his chance at some point on the left flank, and given his form in La Liga over the past couple of seasons – it would be wrong to back against him, making it his own.
Of course, having missed out on Galan, Leeds decided to sign Junior Firpo from Barcelona. A move that has been heavily criticised. Firpo has not only struggled for form – but also, suffered from many injuries.
How different might it have been if Leeds got a deal over the line for Galan? Who knows. But one thing is for sure, he has been without injury ever since the reports emerged about a possible move to Leeds.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
