Leeds United

Exclusive: Ex-Leeds star urges club to consider PL ace over De Paul

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Former Leeds United star Jon Newsome believes that a deal to sign Rodrigo De Paul may be too expensive at £40m.

The Whites have been heavily linked with a swoop for the Udinese attacking midfielder in recent months.

Leeds are said to have made a bid for the Argentina international last summer, but an offer worth €35m (£30m) was rejected by the Italian club.

Do you think that Leeds will sign De Paul?

No, it looks unlikely

No, it looks unlikely

Yes, we could do

Yes, we could do

Since then, De Paul enjoyed a fantastic season, scoring nine goals and laying on 10 assists in 36 outings in Serie A.

Reports claim Udinese have demanded £40m to let him leave this summer.

However, Leeds have also been linked with a potential move for West Bromwich Albion playmaker Matheus Pereira.

The 25-year-old impressed for the Baggies this season despite their relegation, scoring 11 goals and laying on six assists in the Premier League.

Reports suggest that Leeds have already initiated contact with Pereira’s agent over a possible move and Newsome believes it may be a cheaper deal to do for Leeds, as opposed to De Paul.

Pereira has a contract with the Baggies until 2024 and is valued at £11.7m by Transfermarkt.

Speaking exclusively to This Is Futbol, he said: “I think they’re talking £40 million again and it’s a big number, it really is a big number.

“I don’t know what Pereira would cost but I don’t think he’d be anywhere near that kind of figure.

“I’d imagine it’s probably like half that figure. So for me, that makes it better business.”

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