Leeds United pursuit of Leo Scienza not over yet - here's what works in their favour
Leeds United could reignite their interest in Leo Scienza this summer.
The Brazilian has previously been linked with a move to Elland Road after a stellar campaign at Southampton.
He joined the Saints less than 12 months ago from German outfit Heidenheim and never looked back.
The 27-year-old made a positive impression at St Mary's as they had an electric spell under Tonda Eckert.
Their campaign could have ended with FA Cup glory and promotion to the Premier League.
That didn't happen due to another spygate scandal, something that could help Leeds finally make a move happen for Scienza.
Southampton could be forced into Leo Scienza sale
There was so much controversy surrounding the south coast outfit at the end of last season.
That can't be a surprise after being caught spying on Middlesbrough ahead of their play-off semi-final meeting.
The Saints were thrown out of the promotion race and slapped with a points deduction for the upcoming campaign.
That could be enough to prompt some big-name exits this summer ahead of another year in the second tier.
Brazilian journalist Marco Mampreso reported on Tuesday that the ripple effect of spygate has caused financial damage at St Mary's.
The Tribuna Football reporter has suggested that Scienza could be available at a discounted rate to help Southampton raise cash.
Leeds are ready to take advantage, while Brazilian outfits Flamengo and Palmeiras are also interested.
How much could Leeds pay for Scienza?
There has been prior interest in the forward after he contributed to 17 goals in all competitions last time around.
There has been wide reports that the Saints had wanted upwards of £25m before contemplating a sale.
That seemingly put the Whites off making a deal happen, but they could now reignite their interest.
With Mampreso reporting a potential cut-price deal this summer, Leeds could swoop in to land his signature.
That fee is only going to increase the longer the window goes on without Southampton agreeing a sale.
The Whites could hold out and see how low they could get a deal, but even £20m would represent a massively discounted fee that they could pounce on.