Leeds United are on the brink of one of the biggest deals in the clubs recent history. Real Madrid might not be receiving a fee for Kiko Casilla but it represents much more than money. Leeds seem to be on the hunt for Swansea winger Dan James, and Phil Hay has shed some more light on the situation today.
if Leeds can meet Swansea’s valuation then I think they’ll do it
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) January 15, 2019
Alan Nixon broke the news on Sunday morning that Leeds wanted James, and if they couldn’t do a deal then may move on another winger at the same club, Jefferson Montero. James, 21 is in his breakthrough season at Swansea and has flourished with his side showing some poor consistency in their first season back in the Championship. James is one of the most highly rated players at the Welsh club, but they will have to make plans for at least another year in the Championship.
they value him at more like £3m – £5m. His deal's up in 18 months time.
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) January 15, 2019
Nixon suggested Swansea were looking for a fee of around £2.5 million but Phil Hay thinks more. Leeds should certainly have that funding available given the amount of money brought in for players under Andrea Radrizzani compared to that spent. Marcelo Bielsa likes the player and that should be enough for the club to back him, given what he’s brought since his arrival. The fact he only has a year left on his contract at the end of this season helps Leeds United in negotiations.
long and short is that Bielsa likes what he sees of him. Rates his talent and thinks he'll fit in immediately.
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) January 15, 2019
This last tweet is the most important of them all. Marcelo Bielsa takes time to bed in some players and in January we don’t have time for that. Currently top of the league the club needs players who will hit the ground running and if Bielsa is happy that Dan James will settle straight away this is a no brainer. It sounds like once Kiko Casilla is tied up this will be the next one that Victor Orta moves on.