Leeds United fans rejoice as their second term playing in the English Premier League is sealed. Finishing in 9th was a massive accomplishment for Marcelo Bielsa's men, but a few star signings could dramatically increase their chances of conquering another season in the EPL.
Javi Galan has gained the attention of Leeds United scouts and has made it onto the hit list of signings that could potentially come to life during the summer transfer window. The left-back, who can transition to midfield, has also raised eyebrows from Sevilla due to a significant price drop in his release clause (£3.5million to £7million).
Galan had a fine season at Huesa despite the La Liga side losing their position in the league and suffering relegation.
The Spanish defender has evidently provided a level of skill above the Segunda Division, and his new price would be an absolute bargain move for Leeds United. His move to Elland Road could be imminent – producing the first potential signing of the summer for the Whites.
Galan made his way into the Spanish topflight through his efforts at the Cordoba youth team, joining Huesca in January of 2019 for £900,000 – playing for just half a season before his side were relegated. The excellent news for Galan, he's performed so well that his stock has gradually increased, hence the interest from Elland Road.
He assisted his team in winning the Segunda Division title during the 2019/20 campaign, making 28 appearances. However, Galan made himself known during the 2020/21 term; through Huesca's downfall, the 26-year-old was seen consistently overperforming and even claimed one goal and two assists as a defender.
A betting man at BetAnySports would be smart to gamble on his success should he join the Premier League because some key statistics are proving to show that he's not too far behind one of football's most excellent – Lionel Messi.
Small in stature, at only 5' foot 6' inches, don't be fooled by the Spaniard's physical presence. His lack of size is counteracted with a diverse skillset on the pitch between offensive bursts, creative flair, vision, and a sleek passing game set him above the rest. Spanish talent can often be known as the most exceptional passers in the game. Still, Galan's ability to deliver a precisely timed cross into the box would fit perfectly with Leeds United's style of play.
Galan delivered 121 dribbles this season, the second-most during La Liga's 2020/21 season; Lionel Messi was the only player to achieve more. Luka Modric, Luis Suarez, and Karim Benzema were left in the dust of Huesca's star defender, a dribbling statistic that should make his release clause of £3.5million seem like pennies.
Not only would Galan deliver an emphatic style of play to the White's defence, but in terms of business, his net worth could double or even trip after one season inside the English Premier League.
Why Galan? And why a Defensive/Midfielder?
Amid the rumours and uncertainty of Ezgjan Alioski, the Leeds United demand to replace this position was amped up. The North Macedonian native has yet to sign a new contract due to expire at the end of June. And even if Alioski remains, we do not doubt that Marcelo Bielsa will be interested in deepening the squad at such a valuable price for Galan.
Although Javi Galan isn't the most illustrious option, his form, current price, and season performance in La Liga have signalled he can compete at the highest level. It's also no secret that Marcelo Bielsa works exceptionally well alongside Spanish talent, with communication and tactical styles suiting the Argentine perfectly.
An alternative option for Leeds United is Romain Perraud of Stade Brest, a 23-year-old French star who delivered ten goals and featured in this years Ligue 1 team of the season.
Apparently, Perraud was highlighted as Leeds United's first choice option as a left-back replacement, but a price tag of £10million was known to be a roadblock preventing the pursuit. Interest from Lyon and Marseille were rumoured, but recent reports have tipped Southampton completing a deal with Perraud, which would naturally steer Leeds United to making the most of their Galan hunt.