Leeds United could be set for a meaningful discount if they manage to capture the River Plate defender Lucas Martinez Quarta, according to reports.
With the future of Ben White uncertain, it looks like Marcelo Bielsa is putting arrangements in place in case the Englishman opts to return to Brighton once the 2019/20 campaign draws to a close.
After having such a successful spell at Elland Road, the Argentinian tactician has looked to his homeland for defensive inspiration.
According to TyC Sports, the Whites could agree a lower figure with River Plate after the transfer market was significantly weakened by the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
Would you bring Lucas Martinez Quarta to the club?
Yes
No
The report adds that Quarta is into the final year of his contract in Argentina, which could be another factor in his potentially reduced value.
Victor Orta has been closely monitoring the progress of Martinez, with Brighton asking for £35m for the services of White, with one outlet suggesting that he’d be an ideal replacement for Dejan Lovren at Liverpool.
It would be nice to get Martinez on a cheaper deal, with Bielsa’s coaching team carrying out extensive homework on his defensive capabilities.
Quarta, 24, is a 5ft 11 central defender who is a strong passer and tackler of the ball, but it has been noted by Whoscored that he is an individual that commits fouls often.
From 19 league appearances this season, he has provided just one assist but as won an average of 2.9 aerial duels and 3.6 clearances, per Whoscored.
This is impressive. With a reduced price tag, Quarta would be ideal to bring to the club. If we are all honest with ourselves, we all know who we would rather keep.