Leeds United have had a bid rejected for FC Porto midfielder Otavio, according to Portuguese newspaper Record (via Sport Witness).
The lowdown: Orta not messing around
Having already added Brenden Aaronson, Rasmus Kristensen and Marc Roca to Jesse Marsch's squad this summer, Director of Football Victor Orta is seemingly showing no signs of letting up with the search for reinforcements.
Whilst some of the additions over the coming weeks could prove to be replacements for highly sought-after duo Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha, the Whites are certainly getting their ranks in order in a timely fashion.
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Now, it appears as though the Elland Road hierarchy have pinpointed their next target in the shape of 27-year-old Porto star Otavio...
The latest: Bid made
As per Record, transcribed by SW, Leeds have seen a €30milion (£25million) offer to sign the seven-cap Portugal international turned down.
It's claimed that there is an 'indication' that Porto would only sell Otavio should a €60million (£51million) release clause be met, having recently also cashed in on the move that saw Luis Diaz arrive at Liverpool.
The report states that Leeds are looking to add 'reinforcements of weight' after a disappointing 2021/22 campaign. They apparently view the man recently lauded for an 'exciting' standout display for Portugal against Turkey as a candidate to strengthen Marsch's options.
The verdict: Not at that price
Predominantly operating as a right-winger, Otavio scored five times and provided 14 assists in 49 appearances across all competitions last season, earning an outstanding 7.48 Sofascore rating - the fourth highest in the Portuguese top-flight - whilst winning 7.4 duels, making 2.3 key passes and successfully completing 1.1 dribbles on average per league outing to showcase a well-rounded game.
However, despite this eye-catching form and excellent versatility which has seen the Portuguese ace operate in numerous positions across the midfield and frontline, spending the mooted £51million release clause on this deal would be a huge gamble from Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani.
Albeit the Whites will recoup a major profit on Raphinha should the Brazilian eventually leave, we feel that money can be reinvested in smarter ways than spending big on Otavio, despite the midfielder's obvious talents.