Leeds United could swoop in to sign Norwich City’s Emiliano Buendia, as per reports.
The 23-year-old winger was one of the standout players for Norwich City in a subpar campaign in the Premier League that saw them finish bottom of the table and subsequently get relegated back to the Championship.
Daily Mail have reported that Norwich will be willing to let Buendia go for a fee of around £25 million.
The Argentine’s current deal with Norwich City expires only in 2024, which puts the Canaries in the driver’s seat during transfer negotiations.
Buendia racked up 7 assists in his first season in the Premier League and scored one goal in 36 appearances. The attacker moved to Norwich City in 2018 from Spanish side, Getafe.
Emiliano Buendia to Leeds United – Why he would be a good option
Leeds United confirmed the signing of Helder Costa on a permanent deal in July 2020, after a season-long loan spell. He, along with the experienced Pablo Hernandez, operated from the right side for the Whites in the 2019-20 season.
Hernandez, though, is better in the middle, playing as the chief playmaker for his side with his passing and goalscoring.
This leaves manager Marcelo Bielsa with very few options out wide on the right. Buendia could be a fantastic addition to the Leeds United squad as his attributes fit those required by Bielsa.
The Argentine is a small, tricky player, who has the ability to dart past defences with his dribbling, while also having the vision and technical ability to complete a pass.
Buendia has flair that will wow Leeds United fans, while also adding that cutting edge in the final third. Helder Costa had a decent season with Leeds, but in certain games, he looked bereft of ideas.
Buendia’s experience of playing in the Premier League, and doing well in an average Norwich City team, would make him a shrewd buy for Leeds. Buendia’s turn of pace, trickery and close control will make him a good signing for a lot of clubs in the Premier League.
The 23-year-old is also capable of playing as a No. 10, and could slot into a central role if Hernandez is injured or needs to be rested. This is a no-brainer signing for Leeds United, and if they can bring down the £25 million asking fee, they would have completed a good deal.