Leeds United are considering a late move for Malaga CF striker Chupe as they look to strengthen their attacking options before the summer transfer window closes.
The young forward, whose full name is Carlos Ruiz Rubio, has emerged as an option following an outstanding 2025/26 campaign in which he played a major role in Malaga securing promotion to La Liga.
However, according to Fichajes, any deal could prove complicated, with Malaga having moved earlier this year to protect one of their most valuable young assets.
Leeds monitoring the prolific Malaga striker
According to reports in Spain, Leeds have registered an interest in Chupe after being impressed by his prolific performances last season. striker scored 25 league goals during the 2025/26 campaign, finishing second in the Segunda Division scoring charts behind Sergio Arribas, who managed 26.
His overall numbers underline why Leeds have taken notice, with Chupe producing 31 goals contributions across all competitions last season. Malaga recognised his growing importance before their promotion was confirmed, handing him an improved contract in May.
His previous agreement was due to expire in 2028, but the extension keeps him at La Rosaleda until 2029. The new deal also increased his release clause, although Malaga have not publicly disclosed the figure.
Malaga in a strong position over Chupe
Chupe’s rapid progression through Malaga’s system makes him particularly valuable to the newly-promoted club. During the 2024/25 season, he was still dividing his time between the first team and Atletico Malagueno. A year later, he had established himself as Malaga’s number nine and leading goalscorer.
His prolific record also stretches back to youth football. Chupe scored 37 times for San Felix during the 2021/22 season before registering another 24 goals in 23 league appearances for Malaga’s reserve side in 2024/25.
Having helped fire Malaga back into La Liga after an eight-year absence, he has now been given an opportunity to prove himself in the Spanish top flight. He started their opening fixture against Atletico Madrid, which ended in a 2-0 defeat.
Chupe represents an intriguing option for Leeds because his goalscoring numbers are difficult to ignore. At his age, there is also considerable room for development, making him the type of signing who could provide immediate competition while retaining significant long-term value.
The difficulty is convincing Malaga to sell. They have only recently secured his future until 2029 and will understandably be reluctant to lose their leading scorer immediately after promotion. Leeds may therefore need to make a substantial offer to turn their interest into serious negotiations before the deadline.
