Leeds United are targeting a move for RC Lens’ rising star Facundo Medina, who is rated highly by Marcelo Bielsa.
According to an exclusive report from Homme du Match, Leeds United have entered the race to sign Facundo Medina. The Yorkshire outfit are keen on shoring up their defensive options in the upcoming January transfer window, with head coach Marcelo Bielsa particularly impressed by the performances of the RC Lens defender.
Formerly of River Plate, Medina has made quite an impression since his move to Lens last summer. Under the leadership of Franck Haise, the Argentine centre-back has emerged as a key asset in the club’s defensive unit, helping his team achieve a seventh-place finish in Ligue 1 last season.
Thanks to his versatility that allows him to play as the left-sided defender in a back three as well as a left-back, Medina has been even more impressive in the new season. He has notched up 14 league appearances, and his performances have been critical in helping Lens emerge as one of the unlikely contenders in the race for the Champions League places.
The 22-year-old’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with Leeds United attempting a January swoop for the player. The Premier League outfit are in desperate need of reinforcements in the defensive unit, as players like Robin Koch and Luke Ayling have missed a chunk of the campaign through injuries.
Meanwhile, new signing Junior Firpo has not lived up to his potential since arriving from Barcelona in the summer. It has forced Bielsa to set his sights on Facundo Medina. The Argentine tactician is a huge admirer of the young defender due to his versatility in defence, coupled with the dogged defensive attitude and aggression that has made him a success under Haise.
However, it remains to be seen whether Lens will be keen on selling their star defensive asset in January, knowing it could severely hamper their bid for a top-three finish in Ligue 1. Even if they plan to cash in on the Argentine, he is likely to cost a fortune due to his contract that doesn’t expire until 2024.
Fortunately, Leeds United have no shortage of alternatives. Throughout the course of the campaign, the Whites have been linked with multiple talented players across Europe, including Noussair Mazraoui.