Leeds make approach in bid to sign Florentino Luis as Benfica exit news emerges
Leeds United are on the hunt for a new midfielder this summer ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.
Habib Diarra had been on Leeds’ radar until Sunderland hijacked the deal.
However, Daniel Farke has not given up on this position yet, with Florentino Luis now becoming a target.
The 25-year-old has been an important part of Benfica’s team for years, but now his future is in doubt.
Benfica consider Luis departure with Leeds circling
As the transfer window continues to shift, Leeds could take advantage of many quick developments.
Now, according to Gianluigi Longari via X (30 July), Luis’ situation at Benfica has developed in Leeds’ favour.
The Portuguese giants have just sealed a record move for Richard Rios after the midfielder impressed in Brazil.
- Benfica have signed Richard Rios for a record fee
- Luis’ important at the Portuguese side has now diminished
- Leeds are one of several clubs considering a move for Luis
However, this has now opened the door up for a potential Luis departure, with Benfica considering sanctioning the sale.
Serie A clubs have shown previous interest in the defensive midfielder, but now Everton, Leeds and Burnley have all made approaches over a possible deal.
Luis has helped Benfica win two league titles plus the League Cup since progressing through the academy.
How good is Florentino Luis?
While Luis might not be a well-known name outside of Portugal, the defensive midfielder has plenty of highly impressive stats.
According to Fbref (30 July), the 25-year-old is excellent in multiple important traits such as tackling, interceptions and passing.
| Florentino Luis stats last season | Stats per 90 |
| Pass completion | 87.1% |
| Progress passes | 5.81 |
| Tackles | 3.75 |
| Interceptions | 2.38 |
| Blocks | 1.51 |
This could be vital in Leeds’ upcoming campaign, where the Peacocks are likely to be on the back foot in many ties.
Having good defensive players is often the key to staying in the Premier League, and Luis would make Farke’s side even more impenetrable.
Hopefully, Leeds will now make a move for the midfielder to bring him to Elland Road before another cub swoops in.
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