Thiago Alcantara compares Leeds United newbie Rodrigo to Robert Lewandowski

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Leeds United have pulled off one of the more eye-catching transfers of the summer so far, bringing Spanish international striker Rodrigo Moreno to Elland Road from Valencia. 

As reported by Sky Sports, Leeds have spent a reported £27 million to bring the forward to West Yorkshire with the hope of adding goals to the Leeds United line-up. 

Rodrigo is certainly a widely appreciated talent, especially in Spain. One player who is a big advocate of the 29-year-old is Bayern Munich star Thiago Alcantara. 

The fellow Spanish international is, like Rodrigo, of Brazilian descent and the duo grew up as close friends due to the mutual friendship of their fathers, former players Mazinho and Adalberto. 

Speaking to the press this week, the recent Champions League winner was effusive in his praise of his childhood friend and even compared him to a player many believe has been the standout performer of 2020 so far. 

“He has a huge ability for scoring goals,” Thiago is quoted by Goal. “It’s great that he helps us to press, to run. I see similarities with Lewandowski, who has scored a number of obscene goals – but Rodrigo has also scored goals.”

That is huge praise considering Lewandowski’s recent form. The Polish frontman scored 55 goals in 47 games in the 2019-20 season, including 15 in the Champions League. 

If Rodrigo can have half as good a goalscoring season at Leeds next season then fans at Elland Road are likely to be happy with his contribution.