Nelson Deossa: From Colombian gold mines to Elland Road? Meet Leeds United's next transfer wish

Nelson Deossa's backstory could be even more important if he chooses to join Leeds United.

The Whites are set on signing a new defensive midfielder this summer after seemingly missing out on Shea Charles.

Southampton are ready to sanction his sale and are in advanced talks with Fulham for the Northern Irish international, despite being highly sought after at Elland Road.

Leeds have now moved on to other targets, with Deossa a new name added to their list.

The 26-year-old looked set to leave Real Betis and move to Brazilian side Vasco da Gama, but that was until noise emerged from LS11.

Leeds have done their homework on Deossa, with Daniel Farke keen to add more physicality to his midfield, as the player's story is nothing short of unique.

Nelson Deossa's backstory shows he'd fit in at Leeds

Leeds representatives travelled to Dublin to watch Deossa in Real Betis' recent 3-1 win over Arsenal on Wednesday.

It proved to be a highly rewarding scouting mission, as figures for the Whites witnessed the Colombian grab an assist and score a screamer to help his side take down the reigning English champions.

Given the finances that will have been needed for the transfer mission, it's safe to say that Leeds are very keen on the midfielder.

Leeds fans will be intrigued by Deossa's hard-working background, which saw him digging in Colombian gold mines at 19.

AS Diario claim that the player turned his life around in a short space of time, with his family reduced to tears once he made his move to Betis last summer.

It's been a quick rise for the former Monterrey star, who could now make the next jump in his career by moving to Elland Road.

What Deossa's possible arrival could mean for another Leeds man

Farke has clearly made a strong case in that he wants a strong defensive midfielder this season.

That was clear when the links to Charles emerged, as other speculated targets share similar qualities, with Deossa one of them

But should the Colombian come to Elland Road, it may not be such good news for Ao Tanaka

Unless Farke is planning to use the Japan international as a number 10, his chances of being a regular starter appear slim.

Tanaka is too good to rot on the bench, and as seen twice before, he could seek a Leeds departure.