Leeds United have enquired about Matheus Nunes’ availability, with Sporting CP open to a sale for €50 million.
According to Record, via Sport Witness, Leeds United are keen on signing Matheus Nunes as Jesse Marsch eyes the Portuguese midfielder to shore up his squad for the next season. However, Sporting CP will sanction a sale only if their €50 million demand is met.
Having escaped relegation on the last day of the previous season, Leeds have gone about their job to strengthen the squad in a proactive manner. They have already signed six outfield players, including two midfielders, to cover for the loss of Kalvin Phillips, who joined Manchester City.
Tyler Adams was signed from RB Leipzig and Marc Roca was brought in from Bayern Munich to cover the defensive midfield zone. But manager Marsch is now eyeing another central midfielder, albeit of a different profile, who can play in an advanced role.
Matheus Nunes was Marsch’s preferred target before last season ended. And Leeds have now enquired with Sporting CP regarding Nunes’ availability, to which the Portuguese responded by naming their price. The midfielder will cost €50 million, although the big issue would be his desire to join a club playing in the Champions League.
Incidentally, Manchester City were one of the sides interested in Nunes before they signed Phillips, effectively closing the vacancy in midfield. There is also interest from Liverpool, but the Reds have not followed up actively to sign the Sporting star.
Chelsea are also reportedly keen on Nunes, although their current priority is to bring in defenders. Nunes has already rejected the advances of Everton, Newcastle United and even Wolves as he holds on for a move to a Champions League side.
The above reason spells a problem for Leeds, who cannot offer European football of any sort. However, the Whites are likely to remain in touch with Sporting regarding the midfielder and look to convince him over a move to the Premier League. However, the €50 million asking price may also prove difficult for Leeds, which could force them to switch their attention toward alternative targets.
