Leeds United in advanced talks over Cagliari midfielder Nahitan Nandez
Leeds United are readying a club-record £31million bid for Cagliari midfielder Nahitan Nandez, according to Rudy Galetti.
Writing on his personal Twitter profile, the Italian journalist, who regularly appears on Il Pallone Gonfiato, made the claim on Saturday morning [26/06/21].
He wrote: “Nandez-Leeds: Advanced talks. The club have an offer ready close to the release clause set at £31million. At the moment, Inter has not made any official proposals to Cagliari.”
Statement signing
This would be a huge statement of intent by Leeds, if the club do indeed follow through with their interest and make an offer for Nandez.
It would smash our transfer record of £26million we paid for Rodrigo last summer. [BBC Sport]
The Uruguayan is not someone who immediately jumps out when perusing his stats – his two seasons in Europe for Cagliari have brought just four goals in 72 appearances.
However, goals may not be his game, but he’s certainly a player who can make a big difference on the pitch, as evidenced on Thursday night for Uruguay in the Copa America.
The clash against Bolivia highlighted his versatility, as he lined up as a marauding right-back against the low-block Bolivians.
He was sensational, particularly in the first half as he tormented the opposing full-back, jinking and weaving with ultimate ease on a rough pitch.
Uruguay-focused news outlet Referi [verified on Twitter], awarded Nandez as man of the match with an eight rating, double that of La Liga superstar Luis Suarez. [via UruguayFootEng]
Nandez has adopted a variety of different roles for his national side and Cagliari over the past year. According to WhoScored, he made nine starts as a central midfielder, eight as a right midfielder, and 14 more starts across a further seven positions.
He looks like the perfect Marcelo Bielsa player – versatile, aggressive, and wonderfully talented with the ball at his feet.
It may take a big chunk out of our transfer budget, but it could be argued that Nandez is worth two or three players on his own, given his adaptability to different positions.
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