Leeds United’s chances of signing Villarreal left-back Alfonso Pedraza have been dealt a massive boost after it was revealed they are the only club interested in his signature.
Inter Milan have been linked with Pedraza previously, yet their levels of interest have reduced in recent weeks.
This development came per Spanish media outlet La Razon yesterday [29 December], who also claimed that the Whites are in the process of tabling a bid for the Spaniard.
More importantly, the report states that Villarreal are also open to negotiating a deal.
A new left-back sits firmly at the top of Leeds director Victor Orta’s list of priorities in the upcoming January transfer window – along with acquiring a striker – with Pedraza seemingly available to fill this gap in the squad if Leeds are able to produce a realistic offer.
An opportunity
If what La Razon reports is credible, then the availability of Pedraza provides the ideal opportunity to strengthen at left-back, an area which is currently lacking in depth and quality.
Not only does the 26-year-old boast experience and ability, but he is also versatile as well, capable of playing as a left-sided midfielder as well as a left-back.
Even better, he has prior experience of playing for the Whites after making 14 appearances in the 2016/17 season whilst on loan at the Yorkshire club.
In Pedraza, Leeds would be receiving a player at the peak of his career who has a few years left before his ability begins to naturally decline.
It would also allow Pascal Struijk, currently performing admirably as a makeshift left-back, to revert back to his natural position as a centre-half.
With the news that Inter are no longer interested, there has never been a better time to act than now. If Leeds are seriously considering Pedraza, they need to get this deal over the line, and quickly.
