By Craig Scott

13th Jan, 2020 | 7:02pm

Bielsa reputation in Colombia a big factor as Leeds hit stumbling block in transfer - report

It does not seem as though it is going to be plain sailing for Leeds United in their bid to sign Manchester City attacker Ian Poveda, based on a report by LeedsLive.

The news outlet claims that the 19-year-old is yet to decide on whether or not he wants to join Leeds amid interest from Italian clubs Torino and Parma.

It is understood that Poveda and his father were in Italy at the weekend to attend a Torino match but although they were not there to sign any contracts, they were there for the young attacker to weigh up his options.

Although it might seem as though Leeds have a major task on their hands to beat Serie A clubs to the signature of the England Under-20 international, LeedsLive adds that Marcelo Bielsa’s reputation in Colombia is a big deciding factor.

Poveda’s parents hail from the South American nation, where Bielsa is well known despite never managing there.

However the Argentine’s overall reputation in the continent he is from could have an impact on Poveda’s final decision.

It would be a shame if Leeds did miss out on Poveda because he seems like a decent young player who is definitely someone that Bielsa could take under his wing.

But the opportunity to move to Serie A and play for well-supported clubs like either Torino or Parma could also be a big enough draw.

Let’s hope he opts for West Yorkshire, rather than northern Italy.

In other Leeds United news, it has been confirmed that a player has left Elland Road – potentially for good.