Rodrigo de Paul back on Leeds United radar as key Whites figure plans to make ‘statement’ transfer

Leeds United are reportedly back in the mix for Rodrigo de Paul after failing to land the central midfielder in summer 2020.

De Paul had just finished an exceptional season with Udinese in Italy, where he had become their talisman. Despite Leeds’ best efforts, the 28-year-old would go on to spend another season at the Serie A club before moving to Atletico Madrid in July 2021.

Reports put the transfer fee at just under £30million, with De Paul penning a five-year contract at the Wanda Metropolitano.

De Paul, a 39-time Argentina international, has failed to have the desired impact during his debut season with Atletico.

Just four goals and two assists have come his way in 48 appearances. Plus, De Paul is having to compete with the likes of Koke, Yannick Carrasco and Geoffrey Kondogbia for a spot in Diego Simeone’s midfield.

And with Saul Niguez set to return from a loan spell at Chelsea, De Paul could fall further down the pecking order.

According to transfer insider Dean Jones, Leeds might capitalise on the situation by re-entering discussions to sign the playmaker.

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