Why Lucas Martinez Quarta to Leeds United bolster their defence
As per Doble Amarilla (h/t Leeds Live), Leeds United are interested in signing River Plate defender Lucas Martinez Quarta in the summer. The 24-year-old started his career with CA Kimberly’s youth system and joined River Plate’s U20 squad in the summer of 2012.
He was promoted to the club’s senior set-up in 2016 and since then, he has been a regular member of the squad. He was a part of the squad which won the Copa Libertadores in 2018 but he managed to play in just a few games.
However, last season, he played a major role in helping the club reach the competition’s finals, which they eventually lost to Flamengo. The defender is one of the best players in his squad and has taken his game to the next level. Thus, Leeds should make a move for Martinez Quarta and add to their defensive unit.
Martinez Quarta could bring stability to Leeds defence
One key area Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa should focus on strengthening is the backline. At the moment, they have just three established centre-backs in their ranks. Ben White and Liam Cooper have been brilliant throughout the campaign, helping the team keep 18 clean sheets so far while conceding just 34 goals. Leeds boast of the best defensive record in the league.
The other centre-back is Gaetano Berardi, whose contract is set to expire at the end of this month. White is on loan from Brighton and his future at the club still remains uncertain. And if both of them leave, Cooper will be the only established central defender in their ranks. Thus, a centre-back is a must in the summer.
In that regard, signing Martinez Quarta would be useful to Leeds’ backline. The Argentine international has been in scintillating form for River Plate in the last three seasons. He has featured in 19 Superliga games this season and is one of the club’s mainstay as they have managed 9 clean sheets in 19 games.
And the Argentine has been rock-solid in defence for River Plate. He could be a valuable addition to Bielsa’s squad if he is able to replicate the good form he has shown in recent times. He would add depth to their backline, whilst also bringing healthy competition to the squad.
Read more
- Why Harry Wilson would be a fantastic fit at Leeds United
- Why Leeds United should make a move for Aaron Ramsdale
Verdict
With White and Berardi set to leave, Leeds are in dire need of centre-backs in their ranks. And Martinez Quarta, who is just 24, could provide them with stability at the back. His quality could come in handy for the Whites. Thus, they should lure the Argentine to Elland Road in the upcoming transfer window.