Leeds United head into the January transfer window with a sharper focus, prioritising attacking reinforcements as they seek to reinforce their push for Premier League survival.
An improvement in results has brought a degree of stability to the campaign and reduced the immediate pressure on Daniel Farke, yet concerns persist over the team’s threat in the final third if certain players get injured.
That urgency has been amplified by recent tactical tweaks. The move to a 5-3-2 formation places greater responsibility on a dependable goalscorer, while limited attacking depth has further underlined the need for reinforcements.
However, Leeds are also in the market for centre-backs, as playing three central defenders every game has increased the need for cover in the backline in the second half of the season.
Real Betis reject bid from Everton for Natan, who Leeds United also want
With Joe Rodon out injured, Sebastiann Bornauw is getting a run in the team. However, Daniel Farke is worried about the lack of cover in defence.
The Leeds boss has prioritised signing a centre-back in January, and Leeds are considering several options across Europe as part of their plans.
According to Tutto Mercato, Leeds made initial enquiries for Natan for a move in January, and have conducted some preliminary talks to sign the Real Betis defender this month.
Leeds have been keeping tabs on Natan since last summer, and are considering getting their hands on him again in January.
The Italian outlet also mentioned Everton’s interest in the Brazilian. However, it seems the Toffees have taken one step forward towards trying to sign him.
According to Spanish outlet Ficherio, Everton saw a bid rejected by Real Betis for Natan in the ongoing transfer window.
The Spanish club knocked back an offer worth £21.6m from Everton for Natan, and want more money if they are to sell him before the end of the winter window.
Real Betis are open to selling the Brazilian. However, they want his suitors to make a more lucrative financial offer.
Can Leeds afford him?
Leeds require a couple of signings to improve the quality of the squad. One more striker will allay any fears of what could happen if Calvert-Lewin breaks down, and one more centre-back will ease the pressure on the current defenders.
However, the Whites do not have the funds to spend big on players who may or may not break into the starting eleven as soon as they join the club in January.
Natan has been a regular for Real Betis this season. However, there are no guarantees that he can break into the team if he joins Leeds in the coming weeks.
| Competition | Games | Assists | Minutes played |
|---|---|---|---|
| LaLiga | 18 | 0 | 1,567 |
| Europa League | 5 | 1 | 450 |
| Copa del Rey | 1 | 0 | 45 |
| Total | 24 | 1 | 2,062 |
If Real Betis want more than £22m for the defender, Leeds may want guarantees that he is good enough to be one of the three starting centre-backs.
Leeds do not have the financial latitude to spend such sums on a player who may just warm the bench for the time being at Elland Road.
