Former club-mate Samuel Saiz could have been key to Leeds United winning Fran Sol transfer chase

By Mathew Nash

Leeds United are said to be one of many teams interested in the services of Fran Sol in January. The Sunday Mirror (16/12/2018; pg 65) has reported that Leeds are keen on the Spanish striker, along with the likes of Celtic, Rangers, Derby County and many others. In total, eight teams are said to be keen.

The reason why teams are so keen on the player is clear. Sol has scored 15 goals in 18 games for Dutch side Willem II this season and teams are clearly hoping he could have a similar impact in the UK.

But Leeds United may have just agreed to let their best chance of winning this transfer battle leave Elland Road.

BRISTOL, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 21: Samu Saiz of Leeds United (C) celebrates his sides first goal with team mates during the Sky Bet Championship match between Bristol City and Leeds United at Ashton Gate on October 21, 2017 in Bristol, England. (Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images)

Samuel Saiz is set to depart Elland Road. The Spanish attacker requested to leave Leeds recently because of personal problems and has headed back to Spain. As reported by the YEP, a loan with a view to a £6 million permanent move to Getafe is now in the offing.

Saiz, however, may have been Leeds’ best chance to sign Sol.

The pair are former team-mates. The two Spaniards both came through the youth system at Real Madrid and played for the ‘C’ team in the Spanish capital together.

In selling Saiz, Leeds may have just lost the edge in the hunt for Sol.