According to the latest reports from Leeds Live, Leeds United are going to go head to head with Leicester City for the signature of Brazilian centre back Bruno Viana. The defender plies his trade in the Portuguese top division for Braga who currently occupy the fourth spot on the table.
Viana joined Braga just last summer, but his impressive performance is bringing him attention from England. He has his contract with Braga until 2023, and he is being valued at £8-10m. It remains to be seen whether the Whites would be able to lure the defender in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Why Leeds United need a centre back?
Leeds United have used Pontus Jansson and Liam Cooper for the most parts this season as their centre back option. Gaetano Berardi was used initially in the heart of the defence even though he was primarily a right back. Apart from that, the Whites don’t have any standout option for the centre back role.
When Berardi and others were unavailable, Kalvin Phillips was slotted in to play at the back. The Whites might get away with not playing a specialised defender in the Championship. However, if they want to build a team for the Premier League, then they need to sign a defender who can provide cover during those situations.
What will Bruno Viana bring to Elland Road?
The 24-year-old is one of the stand out defenders of the Portuguese top division and can be considered among the top 5 defenders in the league. Viana previously plied his trade for Greek heavyweights Olympiacos, and there he got chance to play in the Europa League as well.
So the defender has played at the big stages, and that should make him a decent option for the Whites. Viana is physically strong, and he is more likely to come off better in a duel with the opponent. The Brazilian showcases impressive defensive abilities as he is a good reader of the game. He often likes to sit tight on his man and doesn’t allow them any space to operate in. Aerially too he can match anyone. All in all, at least on paper, Viana looks like a decent bet to us.
Chances of United signing him?
There is no doubt that to spend £8-10 odd million on a defender; the Whites need to get to the Premier League. With Leicester City also in the mix, it is not going to be straightforward for the Whites to sign the defender.
