Alex McLeish has backed Matheus Pereira to replace Pablo Hernandez at Leeds United should they be able to sign him in the summer transfer window.

The Lowdown: Leeds eye Pereira

As per the Daily Express, the Yorkshire club are among the long list of teams keen on snapping up the West Brom star following their relegation from the Premier League down to the EFL Championship.

Marcelo Bielsa may well be looking to sign a new attacking midfield player after confirming the departure of Hernandez this summer, and Pereira could fit the bill.

The Latest: McLeish claims Pereira can replace Hernandez

Speaking to Football Insider, McLeish, who is now a pundit after a successful managerial career, has backed Pereira to make the move to Elland Road from the Hawthorns, and thinks that he has the capabilities of replacing Hernandez for the Whites:

“Absolutely brilliant. A very technical player and I think it would be a great acquisition that I can see happening.

“You would think he would be very much available due to the fact West Brom are in the Championship now. 

“Nobody wants to be likened to somebody else. You want to be your own man. Pablo has had a fantastic career but he is getting to an age where the legs are affected a wee bit. 

“That can be very visible at times. It is right you get a new pretender. A new kid on the block continuing the marvellous work he has done. Also, adding to Leeds’ terrific entertainment levels.” 

The Verdict: Leeds must sign Pereira

The Whites must take advantage of the Baggies' relegation and sign Pereira at all costs.

The Brazilian could be available for a decent fee given that Albion will not be able to demand as much being in the Championship, and at 25 years of age, the investment would be for the future as well.

Pereira scored no fewer than 12 goals and made a further six assists in 34 games in total over all competitions in the 2020/21 season for a struggling side (Transfermarkt), highlighting his capabilities, and in a better team, he could well shine.

Hernandez has no doubt been a great servant to LUFC, scoring 36 times and supplying a further 41 assists in 175 matches in total over all competitions across the last five consecutive terms (Transfermarkt), but at 36, it is no surprise to see them let him go.

Nonetheless, Pereira certainly has the potential to perform for Leeds as well as Hernandez did, and more.

In other news, find out which 'unstoppable' international LUFC have set their sights on here!