Leeds United and Tottenham Hotspur 'monitoring' creative EFL star
Leeds United are reportedly among the clubs monitoring Southampton star Léo Scienza.
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The 27-year-old, who can operate as a winger or attacking midfielder, only arrived on British shores in September last year.
He sealed a move to the Saints from Bundesliga outfit 1. FC Heidenheim, penning a four-year deal.
Scienza has been a key figure in Southampton’s resurgence under Tonda Eckert, pushing the Saints into the Championship promotion race with his creativity.
Since his arrival in England’s second tier, the Brazilian playmaker has registered six goals and eight assists across 31 league appearances.
Leeds United linked with Southampton star
It appears Southampton may need to clinch promotion to keep the vultures from circling, as ESPN Brazil have credited five Premier League clubs with interest.
Leeds, who are currently locked in a battle for Premier League survival, are said to be among them.
Scienza is also thought to have been looked at by Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa, Everton and Fulham.
After he was recruited by the Saints, Southampton’s sporting director Johannes Spors said: “Leo is someone we feel can adapt well to English football. He is a creative player, a progressive dribbler and a strong set-piece taker.
“He is a player who has consistently produced goals and assists in every league he has played, and is an exciting addition to our forward line.”
Leeds United’s last playmaker signing
As it stands, Leeds look unlikely to make a permanent move for Argentina-capped attacking midfielder Facundo Buonanotte in the summer. The 21-year-old joined Leeds on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion in January but has been afforded just two league outings.
His return to Brighton may prompt Leeds to look at signing another creative midfield force, perhaps one more likely to feature prominently in Daniel Farke’s side.
When asked about Buonanotte by our sister title the Yorkshire Evening Post earlier this week, Farke said: “I like a lot what he's done in the last two, three weeks. I've spoke with him, given him a sign we're happy with the consistency he delivers in training.
“He was pretty close to the matchday squad [at West Ham] though many players were fit. Perhaps a chance for him now there are a few injuries.
“But the solution is always deliver with consistency in training, not just one good session. You have to do this for a few weeks to be back in the spotlight. It means when I call him up I would need to leave another player in the offence."