The January window is less than 24 hours away, and Leeds United are being linked with a whole host of potential signings, including their very own Xabi Alonso.
Following Daniel Farke’s change to a 3-5-2 formation, the lack of depth at centre-back and up front has become an issue, especially with Joe Rodon picking up an injury. Rodon is set to be out for three weeks.
Robbie Evans made the point, after the summer window had closed, that Leeds were close to crossing the PSR border. But LeedsUnited.News understands that to be a myth and in fact, Leeds can spend money.
Plenty of names have been linked of late – Porto’s Danny Namaso, Nottingham Forest playmaker James McAtee and Union Berlin defender Danilho Doekhi have all been linked with a move to Leeds this week.
Jamie Redknapp once likened new Leeds target to Xabi Alonso
Another name being linked with Leeds is Al Hilal and Portugal midfielder, Ruben Neves. The 28-year-old has rejected two contract offers from the Saudi Pro League side and is out of contract in the summer.
While a third offer is on the table, it is claimed Leeds have approached Al Hilal over a move to land Neves. It is believed that if Neves rejects a third offer, Al Hilal will be open to the £15m sale of Neves in January.
Speaking about Neves back in 2019 after Wolves had finished 7th in the Premier League, Jamie Redknapp wrote in his Mail column that Neves reminds him of Liverpool icon and Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso.
“Ruben Neves is one of the most exciting midfielders in the Premier League. He reminds me of Xabi Alonso and Wolves face a challenge to keep hold of him,” Redknapp said about Neves six years ago.
Who would you SELL in order for Leeds to sign Ruben Neves? 🤔
Farke already has Ampadu, Stach, Aaronson, Tanaka, Longstaff and Gruev in his midfield department… 😬
The huge stumbling block Leeds must overcome to sign Neves
The issue Leeds have is that Neves is a player earning Saudi wages. Manchester United and Newcastle United are also interested in the former Wolves man, and their wage bills extend further than Leeds.
According to The Sun, Neves earns a massive £300,000 a week. A whole lot more than Leeds’ highest-paid player, in Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Neves will be aware a pay cut is required, but to that kind of extent?
Leeds need a striker and a centre-back, and while Neves would be a top signing, perhaps he is not a priority for Leeds and Farke as things stand. Especially if Leeds will have to rip up their wage structure.
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