The Athletic's Phil Hay has confirmed that Helder Costa's move to Valencia on a season-long loan deal includes an option to make it permanent.

The Lowdown: Busy Leeds

Costa's move to Spain comes after Leeds signed Daniel James from Manchester United before Tuesday's deadline. A busy transfer window for Leeds saw Jack Harrison make his move to Elland Road permanent, Junior Firpo swap Barcelona for Yorkshire and Kristoffer Klaesson brought in to add competition to Illan Meslier.

After making 22 appearances in Leeds' return to top-flight football, the signing of James means Costa would find himself far down the pecking order.

The move provides the former Portugal international with the chance to re-invent himself and possibly earn himself another national side call-up.

The Latest: Final business

Via Hay's Twitter, confirming the final business of the window at Elland Road, Costa will spend the 2021/22 campaign at José Bordalás' side in La Liga and they have the option to buy the winger on a permanent deal at the end of the loan.

Following Harrison and James' signings this summer, alongside the impressive Raphinha, Costa's playing time at Elland Road would be restricted to the odd substitute appearance.

The former Wolves winger joins Valencia after going unbeaten in their opening three games, including a 3-0 win over Deportivo Alaves prior to the international break.

The Verdict: Good timing for both parties

Despite being instrumental in Leeds' promotion to the Premier League in 2020, Costa's importance within the squad has waned and this feels like smart business for both player and club.

Previously labelled 'a very talented player' by former boss Nuno Espirito Santo last season, Costa has warranted a chance to prove himself and deserves to play consistent first-team football after producing the goods for both Leeds and Wolves in his time in England.

With the addition of James from Manchester United, the loan move comes at a perfect time for both parties, and a successful temporary stint would aid Leeds' transfer kitty next summer if Valencia take up the option to buy.

Pundit wowed by clever piece of business from Leeds this summer...