How Leeds United can take advantage of La Liga rules in Natan transfer pursuit

Leeds United's hunt for a centre-back could lean in the direction of Real Betis' Natan.

The Brazilian has been linked with a move to Elland Road as Daniel Farke looks to find a replacement for the departed Pascal Struijk.

When it comes to targets, there is seemingly quite a clear trend and that comes with the majority being left-footed.

That makes plenty of sense with Struijk's exit and Natan, who is a left-footed central defender, would slot into that void.

With those type of players rare commodities in the world of football, Farke will want to get one through the door as soon as possible.

And the German could now be lent a helping hand to land Natan.

Why Real Betis may be forced into Natan sale

Leeds have enquired about Natan, but while facing plenty of competition, have been said to have a strong financial package.

Like any club, Real Betis will not want to lose their star defender, but La Liga rules could force their hand.

According to the print edition of Diario de Sevilla on Monday, the Green and Whites are facing an issue regarding striker Gonzalo Petit.

Rules in Spanish football state that clubs cannot have more than three non-EU players in their matchday squads.

But, as things stand, the Sevilla-based club have Nelson Deossa (Colombia), Antony and Natan (Brazil) in their ranks, with Petit as the fourth.

However, the report states that both the Colombian and Natan could leave Real Betis this summer in order to free up two slots and create a path for the forward.

The departure of Petit from Real Betis has also been mooted, but the striker is only one year away from securing his Spanish passport.

As of now, Betis are planning to move ahead with the Uruguayan during their pre-season plans.

Why Leeds United should push hard for Natan now

With La Liga rules having Real Betis already at their non-EU quota, the Whites must take advantage of the situation now.

That is before a decision over Petit is made and he becomes the one to leave Estadio Benito Villamarin instead.

If that becomes the case, Leeds would lose a significant advantage over agreeing a deal.

As long as Betis are over the limit, their eyes could be more open to a departure this summer.

However, with Leeds having Ladislav Krejci on their shortlist and Lloyd Kelly emerging as an option, the LS11 side must make a decision quick over their next left-sided centre-back.