After praise from Leeds United scout should the Whites swoop on Liberato Cacace?

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Leeds United’s head of European recruitment Gabriel Ruiz spoke to FIFA.com this week about the players who have caught his eye at FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Poland this summer.

The competition, in which Leeds United’s own Mateusz Bogusz participated this summer, has been fantastic viewing and there is some immense talent on show.

Ruiz even name-checked some of the more eye-catching players at the competition, including one of New Zealand’s fine young talents.

“Not to be outdone, New Zealand players have done some interesting things, not least their left-back Liberato Cacace.”

The Kiwis surprised many with their excellent showing at the tournament and were unlucky to go out on penalties to Colombia.

Liberato Cacace was clearly one of their better talents, as Ruiz pointed out.

So should Leeds make a move for the Wellington native?

Cacace, although just 18-years-old, is already a regular in the Wellington Phoenix side playing in the Hyundai A-League. He has two senior caps for his nation and is considered one of the top prospects in the nation.

He would also suit Marcelo Bielsa’s style of play perfectly. An attacking left-back with tremendous energy and technique, he has perhaps been the standout player in his position at the tournament.

Leeds United often found themselves short in the left-back position last term and Cacace could easily rival Leif Davis and Tom Pearce as Barry Douglas’ understudy. Any work permit issue could be negated by his Italian parents and Leeds would have a top young prospect on their hands. Ruiz should certainly be reporting back to Victor Orta and Bielsa regarding the 18-year-old Kiwi sensation.