Thiago Almada has excelled for Velez Sarsfield in the last two seasons (Getty Images)
According to Transfermarkt (h/t Daily Express), Leeds United are preparing a move for Argentine midfielder Thiago Almada, who plays for Velez Sarsfield.
The versatile attacking midfielder has enjoyed a successful season for the Argentine side, scoring 5 goals and providing 2 assists from 25 matches across all competitions before coronavirus stopped the play.
At just 19 years of age, Almada has already made 46 appearances for Sarsfield and is considered the most valuable player in the Argentine Superliga at £16.2million. An attacking midfielder by trade, Almada’s versatility allows him to function anywhere in the attack.
This season alone, Almada has played eight times as a playmaker, 11 times in both the wings and once as a striker, which gives a fair idea of his attacking abilities. His impressive displays in the attack during recent times has now attracted the likes of several European clubs including Championship winners Leeds United.
Leeds, on the other hand, have ended their 16-year wait of returning to the Premier League under new boss Marcelo Bielsa. The Argentine tactician has helped the Whites earn promotion to the top-flight in his second season in charge after their third-place finish in the 2018-19 campaign.
Having earned promotion to the Premier League, Bielsa is now keen to add more strength to his squad and has identified young Almada as a potential candidate, according to the report.
Leeds have largely been successful due to the stellar form of their veteran playmaker Pablo Hernandez, who is their highest assist-provider in the league with 9 to his name. He has also scored 9 goals in the process, thus proving his significance within the squad. However, the Spaniard turned 35 last April and is clearly nearing the end of his long career.
Apart from Hernandez, Leeds do not have any other attacking midfielder in their side, and the club’s decision to make an approach for Almada makes complete sense.
Moreover, his versatility to play anywhere in the attack makes him a valuable asset for any other side, let alone Leeds. Thus, they should continue their pursuit of landing the Argentine talent. He can also become an excellent future replacement for Hernandez over the course of time.
It is clear that Leeds lack depth in the attacking midfield and it could hurt them next season when they play in more physically demanding Premier League. That said, Almada’s inclusion will only add strength to their squad and offer manager Bielsa plenty of options next season. By all means, the young Argentine looks like a good fit for the newly-promoted side.
