With internationals taking place over the next week, it’s a chance for Leeds United fans to scope out potential incoming this summer.
The transfer window has started slowly in terms of deals happening at Leeds.
This will be partly down to the closed window between June 10th and June 18th.
But the short international break gives a chance for fans to look into potential signings, as new transfer target Dara O’shea could be in action for Ireland vs Senegal on Friday night.
Well, one player who has been mooted with a switch to Elland Road has seriously impressed during the summer break.
Leeds United target Leonardo Balerdi impresses for Argentina
An ambitious target for Daniel Farke this summer is Leonardo Balerdi, who has been a stalwart at centre-back for Marseille.
It was said that Leeds were preparing a £20m bid for Balerdi, with the 26-year-old potentially seeking an exit from France.
This was later upgraded as it was said that Leeds would need a club-record bid for Balerdi’s signature.
The Argentine is the exact target the 49ers should be aiming for, and it’s clear to see why after his performance for Argentina against Chile.
Balerdi played 79 minutes as Lionel Messi’s Argentina triumphed in a 1-0 win over Chile, with Julian Alvarez getting the winner.
The Marseille star kept a clean sheet to Leeds fans’ glee, and an Argentine outlet seemed impressed with Balerdi’s display.
Ole gave out ratings after Lionel Scaloni’s side beat the Chile team, which included the likes of Arturo Vidal.
Balerdi got given a 7/10 for his performance as the defender looked brilliant, with the outlet saying: “Solid in marking (Alexis) Sánchez. Solid up front and down low. Time-sensitive in anticipation and very tidy in his exit. He was taken off in the 33rd minute of the second half.”
His 7/10 rating actually outshone Messi’s 6/10 for La Seleccion and provides plenty of intrigue to the Whites faithful.
READ MORE: Leeds United tipped to match Newcastle United’s spending as 49ers target ‘£250m’ mark
Balerdi performance will frustrate Leeds after latest update
To play in the defence of a World Cup-winning team is always an honour, but when you look like the best player on the pitch, it speaks volumes about what Farke must do.
For £20m, it could turn out to be the bargain of the summer, as he oozed class against the Chileans.
| Balerdi’s statistics in Chile 0-1 Argentina | |
| Minutes played | 77 |
| Passing accuracy % | 98% (Most accurate passer in game) |
| Accurate long balls % | 3/4 (75%) |
| Recoveries | 7 |
| Aerial duels won % | 100% |
The centre-back’s passing is second to none, and to be a threat in the air as well makes for the perfect candidate.
But, this display will frustrate Leeds as Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi made it clear that Balerdi won’t be sold by Marseille.
It’s hard to argue why they should, but the 49ers shouldn’t down tools as signing Balerdi could turn out to be a season-defining decision.
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