Leeds United winger Helder Costa on loan at Valencia
Leeds United winger Helder Costa will join Al-Ittihad on a permanent basis at the end of his loan spell next year, according to journalist Phil Hay.
The Lowdown: Costa heads out on loan again
The £32.5k-per-week winger spent last season on loan at La Liga side Valencia, with Marcelo Bielsa unable to promise him regular playing time at Elland Road.
Having returned to Leeds at the end of last season, Jesse Marsch’s stance has been the same as his predecessor’s, with Costa again unwanted at the Premier League club, for whom he last played almost a year ago in a Carabao Cup tie against Crewe.
On Sunday, it was confirmed that the 28-year-old has joined Saudi Pro League team Al-Ittihad on a temporary basis until the end of the season. He will link up once more with his former Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo, who branded him “immense” in October 2020 prior to a clash between the Old Gold and Leeds.
The Latest: Permanent move expected
Taking to Twitter, Hay delivered a 10-word update claiming that Costa will join the Saudi club for good once his loan spell expires.
In response to a tweet from Leeds confirming the winger’s loan move, The Athletic journalist succinctly stated:
“Permanent deal for Costa at the end of the loan.”
The Verdict: Right time to move on
It is clear that Costa’s time at Leeds is now up, so the sooner he seals a permanent exit, the better it will be for all parties, bringing an official end to his time at Elland Road.
The Portuguese’s current Whites deal doesn’t run out until 2024, so they will still be able receive a fee for his services next summer, which could help go towards new signings.
Costa’s time at Leeds certainly won’t go down in legend but he still had his moments, registering 19 goal involvements in 71 appearances overall, with a brace against Fulham in the club’s first home match back in the Premier League two years ago showing how effective he can be when at his best.
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