Report: Leeds rivalling many Spanish sides for left-footed Juan Cruz

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Spanish outlet AS have claimed Leeds United are rivalling a number of Spanish sides in the race to sign left-footed Elche star Juan Cruz this summer, with a bargain release clause drumming up interest.

Cruz, 27, has been in the form of his life for second-tier side Elche as they look to make a late push for promotion – with Spanish football expected to return in June. The Spanish ace has a contract at Elche has a contract until the summer of 2021.

Indeed, Cruz has laid on a whopping eight assists for Elche from defence in 27 Segunda Division appearances, and helped his club keep seven clean sheets. It is believed Cruz has a release clause at Elche worth a bargain £3.5million.

Director of football Victor Orta has plenty of contacts in Spain but even he will realise the competitions is fierce. La Liga sides Getafe, Real Betis, Real Valladolid, Osasuna and Mallorca all want Cruz. If Elche are promoted, his release clause will double.

TBR’s view – Bad news for Douglas if Leeds land Cruz

Douglas has endured a difficult season and the former Wolverhampton Wanderers star is set to enter the final 12 months of his current contract this summer – and is already struggling with plenty of competition at left-back.

Gjanni Alioski and Leif Davis have also been used this season, while Stuart Dallas has become first choice on the left side of the defence. It has seen Douglas drop down the pecking order, despite only joining the Whites in the summer of 2018.

If Leeds sign Cruz, surely it is curtains for Douglas.