According to Corriere Dello Sport, as cited by Sport Witness, Leeds United are closely monitoring Nicolas Tagliafico. It appears the Ajax left-back has asked for a move away from Netherlands this summer, perhaps due to his low salary. The player is currently valued at only €15 million by Ajax, but Leeds could face stiff competition from Inter Milan, Manchester City and Atletico Madrid.
What Can Tagliafico Add To The Table?
Nicolas Tagliafico is considered as one of the best defenders in Eredivisie, having enjoyed stellar success since his move to Ajax in 2018. He has quietly established himself as one of the club’s key components at the back and is almost a regular with the Argentine national team.
A left-back by trade, Tagliafico’s technical prowess and passing qualities have added a new dimension to Ajax’s build-up. He is capable of passing the ball quickly, while also keeping the opposition occupied with his forays down the flanks.
Out wide, the Argentine international can either pass the ball into a central area or whip in crosses into the box. It makes him quite an asset for any team, in terms of chance creation.
Defensively, Tagliafico does need to work a bit on his positioning sense as he is prone to get caught out in the deep. He is, though, a good tackler and an excellent reader of the game – making him a well-rounded fullback.
Why Leeds United Should Snap Him Up
Nicolas Tagliafico could fit in perfectly at Leeds United as they look to strengthen their squad in the upcoming campaign. In the current squad, he can be a direct replacement for Ezgjan Alioski at left-back, offering much more defensive solidity than the North Macedonian international, who does tend to leave out spaces behind the backline.
Tagliafico’s technical prowess could be a vital asset for Leeds United, especially during the possession phases as he can form potential passing combination triangles alongside the likes of Liam Cooper and Kalvin Phillips.
Speaking of Cooper, Tagliafico is quite versatile as well and has played in a centre-back role before in his career. He can thus provide potential backup for any of the centre-backs if needed.
Considering his experience and the measly €15 million price-tag, Tagliafico could, therefore, prove to be a real bargain for Leeds United this summer, although it remains to be seen whether or not the Whites can fend off competition from Inter, Man City and Atletico.
