Leeds in the ear of former bright youngster as Bielsa eyes mutually beneficial reunion
Leeds United are speaking to former bright youngster Ronaldo Vieira with Marcelo Bielsa eyeing a mutually beneficial reunion.
Vieira, now 23 years old, was on the books at Elland Road from 2015-2018. Despite his young age, he broke through to the first-team and became a regular starter in the 2016/17 season. The quality he displayed did not go unnoticed.
Indeed, Serie A side Sampdoria swopped for the former England under-21 international.
The Italians signed him for around £7m – a move which then new boss Bielsa wasn’t happy with, but was sanctioned nonetheless.
Since then, Leeds have gone on to find their way back to the Premier League regardless. Vieira, however, has seen his career stutter.
He made 44 appearances in the first two seasons with his new club. And then last year he was loaned out to league rivals Hellas Verona.
Injuries have caused him serious issues. A knee problem has prevented him from playing at all so far this season.
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So with less than two years left on his contract, Sampdoria are looking to regain some of their investment in January.
As per Club Doria, they want just £4.25m for the midfielder. Therefore, Leeds are ‘trying to convince’ him to return to the club.
The Whites’ injury woes have been well documented this season, so extra bodies would be welcomed in the January transfer window.
Whether the move could actually happen is questionable, though. Vieira was close to joining Sheffield United in the summer, but failed his medical.
The news has divided Leeds fans, with some attracted by the cheap price tag, while others question whether he could have an immediate impact.
Leeds issues begin to ease
Leeds’ crippling injury crisis may show no immediate signs of abating, though they can at least soon welcome a squad defender back to their matchday ranks.
Leo Hjelde, the summer signing from Celtic has been a regular fixture for their Under-23s this season, making a big impression.
That progress has earned recognition with Bielsa; the Leeds boss often calling him into their matchday squads.
However, having hurt his calf, he’s been missing for the past few weeks.
That though has finally eased enough for Hjelde to make a much-welcome return to training.
And following the Under-23s 0-0 draw with Everton on Monday, coach Mark Jackson confirmed Hjelde and attacker Amari Miller’s return to action.
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