Leeds United to sign ‘next Brazil star for Ancelotti’ as transfer approach already made
Leeds United may have already strengthened their defensive options with the impending signing of Jaka Bijol, and they may not stop there.
Bijol will arrive as an established centre-back in Serie A, to add leadership and physicality to the back line, and a familiar face may join him in England.
Leeds had a strong defensive record last season with Pascal Struijk, Ethan Ampadu and Joe Rodon in central defence, but upgrades would be welcomed as they make the step up to the Premier League.
One exciting option has now been targeted, as Daniel Farke is now keen on a defender who may line up for Brazil at the World Cup next year.
Leeds target Real Betis star Natan
Leeds look set to lose left-back Junior Firpo to Real Betis, but they could now exact their revenge on the Spanish side by signing centre-back Natan.
ABC (23 June, page 71) have now reported that Leeds have asked Betis for the “conditions” of a deal for Natan, who was recently called up to the Brazil squad for the first time.
The 24-year-old joined Betis from Napoli last summer and made 52 appearances in all competitions for Manuel Pellegrini’s side.
| Stat | Natan |
| Appearances | 52 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Yellow cards | 8 |
Natan originally joined Betis on loan with an option to buy, which has now been exercised, but Leeds are keen on signing him already, as they are clearly impressed with his debut season in Spain.
Natan could partner Bijol in defence for Leeds
Natan is a left-footed and left-sided centre-back who could be the ideal partner for Bijol at Leeds next season.
Ampadu will move back into midfield, while a back three could also be an option to tighten up the defence with Rodon alongside the two centre-backs.
The Brazilian was Betis’ best defender this season as he formed a partnership with Marc Bartra, and Natan’s technical supremacy could be perfectly matched with Bijol’s physicality in building a defence capable of staying up in the Premier League.
Carlo Ancelotti is said to be a huge fan of the former Flamengo defender, and his recent call-up suggests that he will be in the Brazil squad next summer if he continues his fine form, at Leeds or Betis.
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