On the latest episode of The Phil Hay Show, James Horncastle has been speaking about Leeds United and the upcoming summer transfer window.
One name which has been heavily linked with a potential move to Leeds over the last year is that of Udinese midfielder Rodrigo de Paul.
The Argentine midfielder has made 35 appearances for the Serie A side this season and in those games, he has been able to find the back of the net nine times, as well as providing 10 assists (via Transfermarkt).
Recently, Horncastle interviewed the midfielder and put forward a question about potentially joining Leeds which he admitted was quickly played down by the Udinese press officer.
However, on the podcast, Horncastle admitted he can see the 26-year-old leaving Udinese this summer.
He said: “I think what’s interesting about that is it’s good that you bring up his age because I think some of the smarter clubs, look at that and think, ‘hang on a minute.’
“Udinese are going to ask again, for let’s say between £35m/£40m, he’ll want an increase in his salary. And that’s going to be a significant outlay, even for a big Italian club in this kind of environment.
“And if we give him a three, four-year contract, he’s going to be 30/31 by the time that comes to an end, are we going to ever get that kind of money back?.
“Some clubs are asking themselves that question. I do think now after three or four years at Udinese he does feel that it’s time to move on. Just because this is a player who should be playing in Europe or let’s say on a bigger stage than at Udinese.”
TIF Thoughts on De Paul’s future…
Horncastle certainly seems convinced the Argentine will leave this summer and that he feels the 26-year-old should be playing on a bigger stage than for a side currently slumped 12th in Serie A.
De Paul is currently valued at £34.2m by Transfermarkt which is a considerable sum of money for Leeds considering their record transfer stands at £27m after signing Rodrigo last summer.
Going by Horncastle’s comments, it seems De Paul will be there for the taking this summer, but will Leeds look to add him to their squad? For all the rumours, it certainly seems risky – even without knowing if De Paul is willing to open the door to a potential move.
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