Leeds United could make a move for their former midfielder Ronaldo Vieira who currently plays for Sampdoria in Serie A.
According to Club Doria 46, Leeds United are considering bringing Ronaldo Vieira, who left Elland Road three years ago for Italy, back to the club in the January transfer window.
Leeds United are enduring a tricky period in their season as Marcelo Bielsa navigates the packed fixture schedule with an injury-ravaged squad. In their latest game in the Premier League against Arsenal, the Whites had only 8-9 first-team regulars available, with the rest and the bench comprising youngsters.
With important players on the sidelines, Leeds United are expected to bring new faces in the January window. The whole idea is to have quality options in the squad to offset those missing out due to fitness concerns.
Central midfield is a key area that Leeds need to strengthen in the January window, with some notable players linked with a move in recent days. However, it’s not in the club’s character or that of Bielsa’s to make rushed signings for its sake without proper research and the manager’s approval.
While some links do make sense, such as their protracted interest in Huddersfield Town’s Lewis O’Brien, others, such as the rumours of a move for Juventus’ Weston McKennie, doesn’t fit their module.
There is a new name in the midfield shortlist, which comes from Italy. Former Whites star Ronaldo Vieira is being considered as an option in January. Currently plying his trade at Sampdoria, the midfielder knows the surroundings and may not need much time to adapt.
However, the midfielder last played a competitive game back in February and considering Leeds want to offset their injury problems the links are rather ironic. However, there’s no smoke without fire, as Bielsa’s side might be in the chase for their former player.
Back in Sampdoria, they have to raise significant funds through player sales, which could prompt the Serie A side to consider an offer for Vieira. The price quoted for the midfielder is around €5 million, which could certainly fit into Leeds’ budget.
Vieira was attracting interest in the summer from the Premier League, with Crystal Palace seemingly interested at one point. However, the London side might feel vindicated not to have pursued him seriously, given that he is yet to play a competitive game this term.
As for Leeds, they should stay away from the player simply for his injury history. They will have to focus their efforts on stars who could come in and ease the pressure from the very start. Someone like Vieira may not be that midfielder they need.
