Recently reports (Zona Amarilla) had emerged from Spain that Leeds United were closing in on the signing of Barcelona B youngster Rafa Mujica. The 20-year-old’s contract with Barcelona B is set to expire in the next few days, and he is going to be available on a free transfer. Now the player himself confirmed that he is leaving the Spanish side after posting a goodbye message on Twitter.
— Rafa Mujica (@rafamujica9) June 27, 2019
Along with Leeds United, Spanish club Las Palmas were also said to be interested in this attacker. What could make them a top option for the player is that Mujica is a native of Gran Canaria, the same place where Las Palmas are based. However, with Phil Hay, formerly of Yorkshire Evening Post, also confirming that the forward is signing for Leeds United shortly makes us believe this is close to a done deal.
Will be signing for Leeds United shortly. Twenty-year-old and Spain U19 international who is coming from Barcelona’s B squad:https://t.co/EKrtrcR3Cy
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) June 27, 2019
The forward managed to score seven goals in 33 appearances last season. We think that the club is probably letting Mujica go because he wasn’t likely to make it at the top level at Barcelona. Nevertheless, the player would be keen to kickstart the second part of his footballing journey, and Leeds United can be an exciting place for a young developing player to come in.
What holds for Mujica at Leeds United?
We aren’t sure here, but the player is likely going to join the reserves side before he can be seen as a first team option. Carlos Corberán manages Leeds United u-23, and he works closely with Bielsa, instilling the same tactics and strategy in the reserve players so that their transition to the first team is smoother.
That is one of the primary reasons why young players like Jack Clarke and Jamie Shackleton hit the ground running at the top level straight away. They didn’t look out of sorts, to begin with, and a lot of credit needs to go the way of how the u-23 side is being run.
We don’t see Mujica as a first-team option yet, and he might have to bide his time in the reserves before Bielsa gives him a shot in the first team. Moreover, the youngster has got no experience of playing football outside of Spain, so adjusting to new conditions and playing style might take some time for him.
Right move for Leeds United?
It is always advisable to keep the pool of young players coming in, and Mujica is likely being seen as a long term project and not someone who would make an impact in the first team straight away. The club though should look at bringing in an established and proven forward as well if the Whites want to improve from last season.
