Leeds United have suffered a blow with the news that rumoured transfer target Rodrigo de Paul has officially joined Atletico Madrid.

The Lowdown: Leeds linked with De Paul move

Marcelo Bielsa may be looking for additions in the summer transfer window in order to take his side up another level in the Premier League.

One player with whom Leeds have been excitingly linked is De Paul, who starred for Udinese last season and won the Copa America with Argentina last weekend, assisting Angel Di Maria for the game's only goal.

A host of clubs have been interested in signing De Paul, however, and the Whites' hopes of their getting their man have ended.

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The Latest: Argentine joins Atletico Madrid

The 27-year-old has joined La Liga champions Atletico Madrid on a five-year deal, as confirmed by BBC Sport, in what is a major coup for Diego Simeone's side.

De Paul registered nine goals and nine assists in Serie A last season, catching the eye with his technical ability in attacking midfield areas.

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The Verdict: Always felt unlikely

This is a setback for Leeds, but in truth it was always going to be difficult to sign a player of the £34.2m-rated De Paul's quality and stature.

While the lure of playing under Bielsa is substantial, being up against the champions of Spain in the battle to sign him meant that the Whites always seemed outsiders to sign him.

A standout addition of a similar ilk still wouldn't go amiss at Leeds, though - someone who could make a huge difference and add another dimension to their attacking game.

In other news, Leeds are reportedly interested in signing a Premier League 'big six' player this summer. Find out who it is here.