Leeds-linked £40m star leaves door open on potential move, says he likes ‘challenges’

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Reported Leeds United summer target Rodrigo De Paul has outlined his ambitions to Tuttosport, saying he likes “challenges” and “growing”.

The Whites were linked with the Udinese midfielder in September, with Marcelo Bielsa eyeing reinforcements in the centre of the park.

However, Leeds failed to reach De Paul’s £40million valuation, with £25million their top price, according to 90min.

Despite the 26-year-old seemingly wanting a move, there was no breakthrough and the Argentine stayed put in Udine.

Since then, De Paul has been one of Udinese’s standout players, performing brilliantly in a deeper midfield role than his usually more advanced position.

In conversation with Tuttosport, the player spoke of his love for the Serie A club and the city, but also left the door open on a potential move elsewhere.

“Here, we have the things that make us happy,” said De Paul. “We don’t need much. This city has welcomed us from day one, we have become parents here.

“It sounds small, but the way the hospital in this city treated my wife and daughter is very important to me.

“These things create bonds that are difficult to break, it would be very difficult to find a comfortable place like this.

“I like challenges, I like to grow. I want to play the Champions League again, I want to play a World Cup. I prepare myself for this every day, then I don’t know what can happen in the future.”

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An incredibly versatile and talented player with plenty of experience at the highest level, De Paul seemed a perfect fit for Bielsa’s style of football.

Unfortunately, with Udinese slapping a heavy price tag on the 18-cap Argentina international, it wasn’t to be for Leeds in the summer.

Given the Whites’ midfield has looked somewhat vulnerable to injury this season, there is certainly scope for reinforcements next year, and the player definitely looks open to a move.

However, could Udinese put their price tag up even further in wake of De Paul’s form? If that was the case, then it would be very difficult for Leeds to afford him.