According to La Nazione, Leeds United are interested in Erick Pulgar and Christian Kouame. The Fiorentina duo has been identified as potential January targets by Marcelo Bielsa as he looks to add more quality to his ranks. Although it remains unclear whether Leeds United will follow up with their desire by making an offer, their interest is concrete.
Here, at The 4th Official, we take a look at how each of these two players could fit into the setup at Elland Road, should they join the club this month.
Erick Pulgar: An alternative for Mateusz Klich
Erick Pulgar had enjoyed a fruitful debut campaign at Fiorentina last season, being involved in 13 goals in 37 matches. The defensive midfielder was an ever-present figure in the first-team but has fallen out of favour in the new season, particularly due to an unfortunate injury around the start of the campaign.
A defensive midfielder by trade, Pulgar is primarily known for his creativity in the middle of the park. He is excellent on the ball – someone who likes to move forward and take on opposing defenders. It makes him a useful ball-carrier, especially in half-spaces, with the midfielder also boasting an impressive record when it comes to chance creation.
At Leeds, Pulgar’s style of play could make him an ideal alternative for Mateusz Klich. Leeds United have indeed struggled to find a reliable back-up for the Pole, who has often run the risk of facing suspension. And that is where Pulgar could come into the fray, although the Fiorentina man can also provide cover for Kalvin Phillips if required – making him an ideal signing for the Whites.
Christian Kouame: Competition For Patrick Bamford?
Leeds United’s desire to sign Christian Kouame is hardly surprising. The Fiorentina attacker is not exactly a prolific goalscorer, but is quite effective in the first line of press, thanks to his smart movements and an impressive work ethic.
It makes him quite similar to Leeds’ very own Patrick Bamford, meaning Bielsa is primarily looking to add some competition in the number nine role by securing the services of Kouame.
The 21-year-old hasn’t had the best of time since moving to Fiorentina. But, the striker has a lot of talent up his sleeves and could thrive under the leadership of Bielsa. He could potentially be available for a cut-price as well, with the Violas keen on offloading one or two players in an attempt to balance the books amid a seemingly lengthening pandemic.
