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Leeds winger Helder Costa linked to Saudia Arabia move - report
Leeds United winger Helder Costa is nearing a move to Saudi Arabia and a reunion with former Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo, according to the Yorkshire Evening Post.
The Angola international joined the Whites in 2019 initially on loan from Wolves but after making more than 40 appearances for the club then made the move permanent in 2020.
However, the Yorkshire Evening Post’s Graham Smyth has revealed that the 28-year-old is now nearing an exit from the club with a move to Saudi Professional League club Al-Ittihad on the horizon.
Smyth said: “The Saudi Arabian side are interested in the Angolan international, who finds himself surplus to requirements at Elland Road.
“Costa trained at Thorp Arch today and has been part of pre-season sessions under Jesse Marsch’s watch but did not travel on the tour of Australia and has not featured in the friendly games.
“Both he and fellow winger Ian Poveda are expected to make departures before the transfer window closes on September 1.”
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Exit for Costa?
It is an unfortunate end for a player that when he first arrived at Elland Road became a reliable and exciting performer in Marcelo Bielsa’s team.
After joining the club on loan, he made 43 appearances in the Championship, scoring four goals and providing six assists.
His performances on the right wing helped the Whites achieve promotion to the Premier League, however, after signing for the club permanently, Costa was never able to replicate his previous form.
Costa’s game-time significantly reduced the following season, making 22 appearances in the Premier League, scoring three goals, and providing three assists.
The former Benfica youth international then left the club to join Valencia on loan for the season, however, his fortunes did not pick up in Spain.
He made 27 appearances in all competitions for the Spanish outfit, and provided a single assist, and will be looking to reignite his career in Saudi Arabia.
In other Leeds news, the club may have a clear run at Borna Sosa.