Why Florentino Luis to Leeds United would bolster their midfield
According to Tancredi Palmeri (h/t The Sun), Leeds United are keen on signing Benfica starlet Florentino Luis ahead of the next season.
Having flourished through the ranks of Benfica’s youth system, Luis, 20, enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2018/19. After excelling with the youth sides, he made 11 league appearances last season and has quickly integrated himself into the senior setup. He is one of the brightest prospects in Portugal.
The youngster has represented Portugal in various age-group levels from U15 to U21 and has won the European Championship with the U17 and U19 sides. His impressive performances have also attracted the attention of clubs like AC Milan and Real Betis, as per the report. Thus, Leeds should make a move for him at the earliest.
The Whites, meanwhile, have returned to the top flight after 16 seasons and as the worthy winners of the Championship. Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa has done a stellar job in turning them into a Premier League side.
However, there are some concerns that need to be fixed by the manager. Firstly, they don’t have a huge squad and that could affect the team’s progress in the top flight. Secondly, most of their main players are on loan. Thus, the manager needs to bring in permanent reinforcements and add depth to the squad, which could be helpful in the Premier League.
Luis could add depth to Leeds’ midfield
At the moment, only two defensive midfielders are available at the manager’s disposal. Kalvin Phillips, who has been one of the standout performers under Bielsa, has been a regular member. However, without a backup option, they did find it difficult to replace the Englishman, who was injured in the closing stages of the Championship.
Moroccan midfielder Ouasim Buoy is the other defensive midfielder. But he hasn’t featured in a single game for the Whites and his future at Elland Road remains uncertain. Moreover, he has just one more year left on his contract with the club. And, his departure would future reduce Leeds’ numbers in midfield. Therefore, a midfielder is a must in the summer.
In that regard, making a move for Luis seems to be sensible. The Portuguese youngster has already shown immense qualities at a higher level and has a huge future ahead of him. At Leeds, he can be used as an understudy to Phillips and when his time comes, he can fight for the spot with the Englishman. He would also add some much-needed depth to the squad.
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Verdict
It is necessary for Leeds to bring in a young defensive midfielder in order to add depth to the squad. And Luis, who is just 20, has shown a lot of potential and can develop a great deal under Bielsa. He can go on to represent the club in the long run if he is able to continue with the good form. Thus, Leeds should attempt a move for the Portuguese youngster this summer.
