Dominic Matteo suggests Leeds target Rodrigo De Paul

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Dominic Matteo has told the Sunday Mirror (18/4; page 65) that Leeds United should set their sights on qualifying for Europe next season, suggesting that signing a player such as Rodrigo De Paul could help take the Whites to the next level.

Marcelo Bielsa’s men have ensured that they will be a Premier League side once again next year. They sit 10th and are actually just 10 points off the top four right now.

A push for the European places may be beyond the Whites this season. But Matteo believes that they can target taking that next step next year, before suggesting one potential summer target.

“I think next season they should be looking to get back into Europe. Bielsa is that type of manager – and nothing would surprise me because Leeds play with no fear,” he told the Sunday Mirror (18/4; page 65).

“Look at the improvement in players like Stuart Dallas, Luke Ayling, Kalvin Phillips and Patrick Bamford.

“I think keeping these key players, and signing someone like Udinese midfielder Rodrigo De Paul in the summer, and maybe one or two others, could take Leeds to the next level.”

Leeds fans will need little reminding of the fact that they have been linked with De Paul throughout their time in the top flight.

The Telegraph reported last August that Leeds wanted the Udinese talisman. And while no move would take place, the links have not exactly gone away.

Calciomercato reported just last month that the Whites remain interested in De Paul.

The 26-year-old has scored eight goals and contributed five assists in Serie A this year. And Leeds certainly need to think about strengthening their midfield options – despite Stuart Dallas’s superb form.

Of course, Leeds not signing De Paul last summer would hint that a move this time around may also be unlikely.

But you could certainly understand why some would agree with Matteo and hope that he ends up at Elland Road in the coming months.