Leeds target £17m Brazilian | OneFootball

Leeds United eye Brazilian talent in South America

Leeds United have once again been linked with the South American market, with Sport Witness relaying reports from Brazil that the club are keeping close tabs on Internacional midfielder Gustavo Prado. The 20-year-old is currently with Brazil’s U20 squad at the World Cup in Chile, where scouts from several European clubs, including Stuttgart and Atalanta, are monitoring his performances.

Internacional’s stance on valuation

Correio do Povo report that Internacional are aware of the growing attention but no official bids have yet been made. While the youngster’s release clause is set at €60m (£51m), Revista Colorada indicate the Brazilian side may consider offers in the region of €20m (£17m). Club officials remain clear, however, that they will not allow Prado to leave for anything deemed cut-price.

Photo IMAGO

Player development and future role

Prado has progressed through the Internacional academy and has become a regular figure in the senior squad. Although used mainly from the bench in recent campaigns, he has shown flashes of quality that mark him out as a player of promise. With Ramón Díaz now in charge at Internacional, the midfielder’s role could soon evolve, potentially increasing his exposure to European suitors.

Leeds United’s South American push

Leeds have made a deliberate effort in recent seasons to strengthen their scouting network in South America. The potential availability of a midfielder like Prado, who is entering a critical phase in his development, could provide an opening. Much may depend on how he performs on the international stage, where scouts are expected to track his progress throughout the tournament.

Photo IMAGO

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

This report feels like a glimpse of what Leeds have been working towards. For too long they have watched other sides dip into the Brazilian market, unearthing talent that later blossoms into stars across Europe. Now, with Gustavo Prado’s name emerging, it feels like Leeds might finally be ready to step into that arena with intent.

The idea of snapping up a 20-year-old midfielder with a €60m release clause but potentially available for a third of that is the kind of calculated gamble that gets fans excited. Yes, it is a lot of money, but if Leeds want long-term Premier League stability, this is exactly the type of signing to make.

Prado is already playing for Brazil’s U20 side, which is no small achievement. The fact that he is competing at a World Cup in Chile means scouts across the globe are watching every move he makes. If Leeds were bold and acted quickly, it would send a strong signal that the club are serious about building a squad with flair and international quality.

Leeds supporters have seen what South American players can bring to Elland Road in the past, adding that spark and unpredictability that gets the crowd on their feet. Signing Prado would not just be about adding depth, it would be about making a statement. For a fanbase desperate to see Leeds rise again, this kind of rumour is one that sets pulses racing.