Report: Leeds 'are ready' to move for midfielder wanted by Bielsa – 6-month loan, no obligation

It's been a quiet January for Leeds United so far but there is one name that refuses to go away – Fiorentina's midfielder Erick Pulgar. 

Back in December, it was reported by La Nazione that Marcelo Bielsa had instructed Leeds to sign Fiorentina pair Pulgar and Christian Kouame.

La Nazione has now delivered an update on both players, with more positive news on Pulgar.

Talking about potential exits from the club this January, they report that the club has put a hold on Kouame leaving.

However, La Nazione claims that Leeds "are ready" to take Pulgar on a "dry" six-month loan without either an obligation or option to buy him.

Could Leeds be tempted to get cover?

Leeds got burned with a move for Jean-Kevin Augustin in the last January window and the common thinking is that Marcelo Bielsa won't make the same mistake again.

However, cover is needed in midfield – you've only got to look at the last game against Brighton to see this.

When Phillips is out there's no one to come in for him and Pulgar would fit the bill perfectly.

Pascal Struijk is much more comfortable in defence and there's no spine to the side when he plays in midfield.

Pulgar has played 14 times this season so will be match fit and could come straight in and do a job for Leeds.

A straight loan would give Leeds the opportunity to monitor him over a six-month period before deciding whether to make a permanent move for him in the summer.

We're not surprised that there's no obligation in the mooted deal but an option would benefit Leeds.

However, we'd welcome a straight loan as we really believe Leeds need extra cover in the midfield positions.

In other Leeds United news, Leeds get major fitness boost ahead of PL clash v Newcastle