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Leeds: Pete O’Rourke reacts to Dries Mertens transfer interest
Journalist Pete O’Rourke has reacted to reports claiming that Leeds United are interested in signing Napoli striker Dries Mertens this summer.
The lowdown: Leeds interested in Mertens
This comes after the Whites were linked with an audacious attempt to bring the 35-year-old to Elland Road, according to a report from Belgian outlet Voetbal Flitsen.
It has been claimed that Leeds, Crystal Palace and mega-rich Newcastle United are all keen on bringing Mertens to the Premier League.
The veteran is the Serie A club’s record goalscorer with 148 in 397 appearances, and the thought of the experienced Belgian arriving in Yorkshire would certainly excite one intrigued onlooker…
The latest: O’Rourke on Mertens
Speaking to GiveMeSport, O’Rourke has suggested that bringing the 104-cap Belgium international to Leeds would be a significant move from the club.
He said: “If they could get somebody like him in, it’d be a massive statement signing from Leeds United. I think it’ll be a hard deal to do, but the opportunity to play in the Premier League is something that maybe appeals to Mertens at this stage of his career.”
The verdict: No-brainer
Mertens is perhaps no longer at the peak of his one-time incredible powers, but given his capabilities of playing as a centre-forward or in the trequartista role, signing him as a soon-to-be free transfer would be a superb piece of business from Victor Orta.
Despite his advancing years, the Belgian was hailed by journalist Josh Bunting for a ‘world class’ strike in a stunning 8.50-rated display against Lazio in November (Sofascore), with two goals, two successful dribbles and a 100% passing accuracy on the night.
Mertens scored 13 times and provided two assists from 37 appearances across all competitions in 2021/22, proof of a continued ability to thrive at the elite level, which would be a huge boost to Jesse Marsch’s ranks as the American seeks quality cover for Patrick Bamford after an injury-hit campaign for the 28-year-old.
