Leeds United

Leeds United: McGilligan buzzes as club linked with ‘Coutinho-esque’ name

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Image for Leeds United: McGilligan buzzes as club linked with ‘Coutinho-esque’ name

Speaking on the One Leeds Fan Channel, journalist and podcaster Conor McGilligan has been left in awe of reported Leeds United target Otavio. 

On Wednesday night, reports emerged out of Portugal claiming that Leeds had a €30m (£26m) bid rejected by FC Porto for the 27-year-old playmaker.

With the Whites demanding a £65m fee for their star man Raphinha, it seems as if they have already earmarked a potential replacement.

The versatile attacking midfielder has played on the left and right – albeit more narrowly than a traditional winger – as well as through the middle during his career, and recorded 13 assists in Porto’s title-winning campaign last season, also registering three goals.

So he could be a player that would get the Elland Road faithful off their feet and it is clear to see why McGilligan was beside himself with the news.

Would you like to see Leeds sign Otavio?

Yes

Yes

No

No

He said: “I really like Otavio. He’s always been there, hasn’t he; he’s always been linked to the top clubs.

“He’s always been linked to the Liverpools, the Bayern Munichs, the PSGs, and it’s interesting that apparently, Leeds have officially had a bid rejected.

“A lot of intelligence in his football play, a lot of technique, low centre of gravity, vision, awareness, lovely balance, a good use of both feet as well. Very Coutinho-esque, but a lot stronger.

“But I feel it’s going to be a lot of money to get him out of that contract.”

TIF Thoughts on Otavio and Leeds…

Would you pay £30m plus for Otavio?

Yes

Yes

No

No

Indeed, it was said that Liverpool were interested in a move for the Portuguese international last summer in a transfer that Jurgen Klopp had personally sanctioned, hence the excitement displayed by McGilligan.

The £27m-rated attacker will further add to the tenacity that Brenden Aaronson will bring to Elland Road with their relentless pressure and work rate off the ball.

Among attacking midfielders and wingers throughout Europe, Otavio ranks in the top 1% for pressures and tackles per 90 minutes and despite his diminutive status at just under 5ft 8in, he won an average of 1.39 aerial duels per game, further highlighting his endeavour (FBRef).

He is also among the continent’s top 5% when it comes to shot-creating actions per 90 mins (5.17), and whether Leeds return for an offer remains to be seen – although we feel a figure around the £30m mark would be good business based on his impressive numbers.

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