Leeds United’s season might haven’t gone the way they had hoped but that hasn’t stopped them from attracting top players. Thomas Christiansen knows this January transfer window would be a one-of-a-kind opportunity and he needs to make full use of it.
According to reports, Leeds are readying a bid for Real Betis midfielder Andres Guardado in January. The midfielder arrived at the Spanish club in this summer only and has been a regular for the Spanish outfit throughout this campaign.
Leeds’ summer transfer window was full of bargain buys but Christiansen wants to let the purse loosen this time. The gaffer is so impressed by Guardado’s quality he is prepared to offer in excess of £5m for the services of the player.
The Mexican international is a veteran when it comes to plying trade in the European big leagues. He has played at reputed clubs with the likes of Valencia, Bayer Leverkusen and then Ajax, leaving his mark as one of the most efficient players on the pitch.
The midfielder won two successive Eredivisie titles with Ajax and now has been replicating the same form in Spain as he has already racked up six assists in 13 games this season an has been calling all the shots in the middle of the pitch.
It would be a hell of a signing and there seem to be no competitors for the Yorkshire giants. Betis only signed the player in summer and could be reluctant to let him go but they are set for a windfall and would be more than happy in earning some quick bucks.
Leeds boss made a hint that there could be some exciting signings next month.
“We are working with Victor [Orta, director of football] and Andrea [Radrizzani, owner] to see where we can improve.
“We are looking at all the areas, of course, we have to reply on the pitch.
“We have time still, I expect that we will turn the situation for better and then we will see if it is necessary to bring anybody.”
Leeds need some experience in the centre of the pitch as the likes of Kalvin Phillips and Ronaldo Vieira has been pretty exceptional but the lack of dominance could be a problem as the club are about to enter the most hectic period of the season.
A seasonal midfielder like Guardado would be able to bring out the best from his fellow players. An offer might be on the way and Leeds are frontrunners to bring the player all the way to the Elland Road.
