Leeds United have reportedly made an offer to sign Real Madrid striker Mariano Diaz on a free transfer ahead of the summer window – and Carlo Ancelotti thinks the forward is “brilliant”, and a player that is great behind the scenes.
Diaz, 29, has managed just 82 appearances for Madrid since joining the club in 2011 – aged just 18. He has spent the entirety of those 11 seasons at Madrid apart from one year, joining Lyon permanently, only to be bought back.
Now out of contract after just nine games for Madrid this season, he is set to leave in the summer. Spanish outlet Defensa Central claim Leeds have tabled an offer to land him on a free, as have Madrid-based La Liga side Getafe.
It is claimed that Leeds are willing to match his £77k-a-week Madrid wages – but obviously, a move hinges on our survival in the Premier League. Getafe would see him remain in Madrid, but they are unwilling to even pay half.
Madrid boss Ancelotti is a big fan and praised him after leading the line for Madrid in a 2-1 win over Elche back in 2021: “He did a brilliant job. He showed great commitment, made a lovely assist for the first goal, he was decisive.”
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Leeds make Mariano Diaz offer, Carlo Ancelotti thinks he is ‘brilliant’
If Leeds stay in the Premier League, then a striker is likely to be at the top of the list of transfer priorities. Patrick Bamford proved on Tuesday night that he is far from his best. Rodrigo is said to have interest from the MLS.
His deal ends in 2024 and an exit this summer is a possibility, even if Leeds stay up. Georgie Rutter needs time. So, if Bamford or Rodrigo need replacing then perhaps, Diaz could be the man to come in and lead the Leeds attack.
