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Leeds United handed major Arthur Cabral transfer boost over contract situation
By Max Parsons
Leeds United have seemingly been handed a major boost in their pursuit of Brazilian striker Arthur Cabral.
The 23-year-old has been electric since arriving in Switzerland from Palmeiras in 2019. Cabral has notched 60 goals and 15 assists in just 94 appearances for Basel and was reportedly the subject of a £16 million bid from Leeds in the summer of 2020 [Globo Esporte] – although no deal came to fruition.
Leeds have maintained interest in the player, along with several other Premier League sides [TeamTalk]. And their desire to secure his services have been handed a boost with the latest development.
According to Corriere dello Sport, Cabral has halted contract negotiations with his current side and is open to exploring the possibility of moving on. The striker has two years left on his deal with Basel and is thought to be available for somewhere in the region of £14million.
A needed addition
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The news should give the Whites much encouragement, as well as motivation to do everything they can to seal a deal for the 23-year-old.
It isn’t often that a youngster coming over from a different continent adapts to life in Europe so rapidly and easily. To have contributed to 75 goals in his first 94 matches for Basel is all the proof you need to conclude that he’s a special talent, and one that Leeds should be after.
He may not be the workhorse and high-presser you’d usually associate with Marcelo Bielsa sides, but that predominantly comes down to Basel’s style of play rather than his individual attributes. The crucial aspect of this potential deal is simply that Leeds need an additional striker in the squad, due to their severe lack of depth in the area.
Patrick Bamford’s injury-enforced absence since mid-September has taken its toll. Joe Gelhardt impressed when entering the field of play against Wolves last time out, while Rodrigo has experience of the position but doesn’t seem the reliable out-and-out striker that will soften an injury blow.
A new centre-forward is crucial for Leeds and, following the latest developments, the Whites should try and land Cabral in January.
In other Leeds United news, this midfielder has suggested he wants to quit the Whites.