Back in the Premier League for the first time since 2004, Leeds United are expected to make quite a few signings this summer and one name on their radar is that of Argentine star, Nicolas Gonzalez.
Reports from Guardian claim that Leeds United could make a move for Gonzalez, who is expected to cost around £15m.
It is understood that Brighton & Hove Albion have already opened talks for his signature while the likes of AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund are also showing an interest in Nicolas Gonzalez. But should Bielsa try and bring him to England?
Who Is Nicolas Gonzalez?
Having started his senior career in Argentina, the 22-year-old moved to Germany with VfB Stuttgart in 2018 and was a regular in the starting XI in his first season in the Bundesliga.
Stuttgart got demoted to the second tier in Germany last season but managed to achieve immediate promotion, thanks to the 14 goals and three assists Nicolas Gonzalez registered in just 21 league starts.
A versatile winger who can even lead the line, Gonzalez was also used in deeper roles in midfield last season to decent effect.
But the 22-year-old is an attack-minded player, who can be devastating in the front line. His dribbling and close control make him a menace in the final third while his ability to win duels in the air consistently allows his team to change tactics if necessary.
Gonzalez also has three caps for the Argentine national side and at just 22, has enough experience to be an asset for Leeds United in England.
Right Man For Leeds?
Bielsa had an in-form Patrick Bamford leading the attack for the side in the Championship last season. He was the top goal scorer for the club with 16 goals to his name but Pablo Hernandez, a midfielder in Bielsa’s side, was the second-highest goal scorer at the club, with just nine to his name.
Creating chances and scoring them was an issue at times for Leeds last season. Lack of versatility in the squad forced Bielsa to stick with just one plan but Gonzalez’s signing could change everything for the manager, who needs more tricks up his sleeve, especially in terms of personnel.
Helder Costa and Jack Harrison have prolonged their Elland Road stay this summer. But both players may have healthy competition for their place in the starting XI with Gonzalez adding a different dimension to the attack at Bielsa’s disposal.
Leeds are looking at other strikers available on the cheap but the emerging star from Stuttgart has the attributes that suit the English game and at just around £15m, he is a signing Bielsa should try and complete this summer.