There is no denying that Marcelo Bielsa has achieved wonders with Leeds United already, although a lot of it will not count for much if they are not playing in the Premier League next season. Their automatic promotion hopes took a dent at the weekend and the club will need to bounce back extremely quickly to ensure they still remain within a chance of winning Premier League football without having to go through the playoffs.
Regardless of where they end up next season, the Whites are likely to make a number of changes to the first-team and it would appear the Argentine boss could look to bring a former player of his to Elland Road in the summer.
What’s the News?
According to a report by AS (via Sport Witness), Ander Iturraspe could team up with one of his previous managers with his contract at Athletic Bilbao set to expire in the summer.
It is claimed the 30-year-old is one of a number of players the Spanish side are prepared to let go and Leeds are understood to be a possible destination for him with the potential of reuniting with Bielsa.
The Verdict:
Iturraspe could be an ideal transfer target for Leeds in the summer for a number of reasons and should be one that the club consider making.
Firstly, the fact that he would be available on a free transfer would be ideal for the Whites as they would not have to spend a fee to bring him to Elland Road and could then become a relatively low-risk acquisition – provided his wage demands are not of a substantial amount.
Another reason that the club should potentially look to make a move for the 30-year-old is that he has a really good understanding of what Bielsa would want and how to play in the system the Argentine decides to use following their spell at Athletic Bilbao.
Iturraspe was a key player for him in during his time at the Basque outfit and he excelled in the middle of the park, whilst he could also potentially be a mentor for Kalvin Phillips and help the 23-year-old develop further.
However, there must be some doubt regarding the two-time Spain international as he has featured just twice for Bilbao this season – with his last appearance coming back in September.
And, if Leeds do not manage to win promotion to the Premier League, whether reuniting with Bielsa is enough to convince him to join them in the Championship remains to be seen.
Leeds fans, what do you make of Iturraspe? Do you think he could be a great addition in the summer? Join in with the discussion below by sharing your thoughts with us.
