Leeds United are now considering a big-money move to sign Andre from Wolverhampton Wanderers this summer.
Andre is set to leave Wolves this summer
As they close in on survival, it’s no surprise that Leeds are turning their attention to the summer transfer window. For the first time under Daniel Farke, the Whites have the chance to build on a successful Premier League campaign and, if reports are anything to go by, that means spending big.
The first priority in that regard may be finding a replacement for Ao Tanaka. Much has been made about the future of this midfielder as there are reports that he may return to Germany.
Doubts over Tanaka’s future have arisen due to his playing time at Leeds this season. He has been one of the few players to suffer from the club’s transfer business, with the likes of Anton Stach jumping in front of him in the blink of an eye.
While there have been signs of that changing in recent weeks, it may be too little at Elland Road – leaving Leeds with the task of replacing the 27-year-old.
This is where the resale market will come into play. According to reports in Brazil, as relayed by Sport Witness, Leeds are now considering a £35m move to sign Andre from Wolves this summer.
Despite being relegated, the Midlands club are expected to make a huge bid for the Brazilian, who could become the second most expensive player in Leeds’ history as the 49ers are set to register a bid.
£35m Andre would be a quick upgrade on Tanaka
£35m may seem steep, but that’s the price Leeds will have to pay for Tanaka’s development. For all the Wolves’ struggles this season, Andre has been one of the few that stands out.
The South American has established himself in the Premier League and formed a partnership with Joao Gomes that was not under the table.
|
PL 25/26 P90 |
Andre |
Tanaka |
|---|---|---|
|
Minutes |
2,406 |
1,015 |
|
Fighting |
2.81 |
1.77 |
|
Recovery |
6.81 |
5.23 |
|
Pass completion |
91% |
85.6% |
|
Duel success |
52.6% |
43.7% |
Called “powerful” by Como’s Ben Mattinson, Andre has succeeded where Tanaka has struggled this season. In his absence, the 24-year-old has been all over the place.
That £35m price tag could quickly turn into a bargain if Leeds secure their move and enjoy the midfielder at the peak of his powers for years to come. With competition from Juventus, however, those at Elland Road will have to move quickly if they want to secure his signature.
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Leeds United appear to already have one eye on the upcoming transfer window this summer.
