Marcelo Bielsa and Leeds United get an A for strong signings in Morena and Raphinha during the transfer window
Leeds United are on the rise. After their promotion to top-tier football, they have managed to come inches close to beating the big guys and that makes them one of those spoilsport sides who on their day can pull off upset wins. As far as their transfer window goes, Michael Cuisance's loss was Raphinha's gain. Leeds were a satisfied unit when they signed Cuisance only for him to fail his medical. However, with Raphinha in their ranks, there's a lot to look forward to.
The Brazilian winger signed for a reported fee of £17 million ($22m) has a four-year contract with Leeds. The former Rennes player was previously a part of Raphinha Sporting CP in the summer of 2019 and managed to impress with eight goals and seven assists in his first 36 outings for Julien Stephan's side. With an attacking mindset, Raphinha looks a sure starter when the Whites take on the Wolves on October 19. Here's a quick look at the in's and outs this season:
IN: Helder Costa (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Illan Meslier (FC Lorient), Jack Harrison (Manchester City, loan), Joe Gelhardt (Wigan), Cody Drameh (Fulham), Sam Greenwood (Arsenal), Robin Koch (Freiburg, £12.9m), Rodrigo Moreno (Valencia, £30m), Crysencio Summerville (Feyenoord), Diego Llorente (Real Sociedad), Raphinha (Rennes).
OUT: Ryan Edmondson (Aberdeen, loan), Alfie McCalmont (Oldham, loan), Bryce Hosannah (Bradford, loan), Kun Temenuzhkov (Real Union, loan), Jordan Stevens (Swindon, loan)
According to Goal, Raphinha added that Leeds' performance during a 1-1 draw with Manchester City on Saturday helped him decide to join Bielsa's squad, where he's comfortable to play in a system that allows him to express himself. "I watched Leeds play against Liverpool and Manchester City and I was enchanted with the style of play." Also adding more teeth to the side was the addition of Moreno and Koch. At the moment, Leeds are placed eighth on the standings with two wins, a loss, and a draw. They lost 3-4 to Liverpool is followed by wins over Fulham and Sheffield United. A tie against Manchester City before the week's break saw them being dubbed as one of the most entertaining teams so far this season. Bielsa's boys will take on the Wolves and Aston Villa next.
What are your thoughts on Leeds United's signing during the transfer window?