Bielsa pondering fresh Liverpool approach amid startling revelation over Leeds transfer strategy
Marcelo Bielsa is reportedly content to stick with his current Leeds United squad and is unconcerned about bringing in new players despite numerous links.
It was thought that the Argentine tactician would dip into the club’s coffers during the January transfer window. But the Whites have kept their powder dry with just a few days left to sign players before the window closes. The Elland Road outfit have been linked with many.
Young Aberdeen right-back Calvin Ramsay is on the radar, according to reports. And Red Bull Salzburg midfielder Brenden Aaronson has also been linked with the West Yorkshire club.
However, The Athletic journalist Phil Hay has lifted the lid on Bielsa’s mindset. And it seems as though the South American is happy to continue working with the current group.
“[Bielsa] doesn’t want that many players,” he said on The Phil Hay Show podcast. “I’ve been told by various people this month that he’s not been that fussed about people coming in.”
Bielsa in control over signings
Leeds have struggled with injuries this term and sit 15th in the table after a tough season to date. Recent back-to-back wins eased the pressure and they are seven points above the relegation zone.
But Hay feels it is indicative of Bielsa’s managerial style to stick to his guns through thick and thin.
“And I know people are on the outside saying, ‘you don’t have enough, you need this, you could do with more in midfield,’ but going right back to the start, he’s never really relied on the transfer market in the way that so many other head coaches do,” he added.
“It is kind of difficult and I can imagine there are probably times when the recruitment team at the club are thinking, ‘we would do with signing him or signing him or we could do with improving this, that or the other,’ but the final decision will always be Bielsa’s. It kind of has to be.”
Bielsa eyes Minamino swoop
Takumi Minamino is one player that has been linked with Leeds in recent times. The Liverpool winger does not see much action with the Anfield giants.
And it was reported earlier this week that the Reds have already rejected bids from Leeds and Monaco for the Japan international. Bielsa’s side are understood to have enquired about a loan deal for the Far East ace.
However, the Merseysiders will only entertain a sale and are looking for a fee in the region of £20m. Leeds may go back with an improved bid. But The Yorkshire Evening Post’s Graham Smyth suggests convincing the ex-Red Bull Salzburg to join Leeds might be an issue.
They already have the likes of Raphinha, Daniel James and Jack Harrison in the ranks. Minamino may be swapping the bench at one club for the same at another.
However, if Hay proves to be correct, Bielsa is not too bothered either way.
READ MORE: Leeds could have unexpected late January test to contend with as West Ham lurk for Raphinha
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