Leeds United transfer news: Aston Villa playmaker to move to Elland Road in January?

Having missed the entirety of the 2023-24 campaign with a serious knee injury, Buendia has made a welcome return to fitness this season.

However, with Villa competing at the top of the Premier League and Champions League tables respectively, there have been few opportunities for the Argentine.

Aside from making two starts in the EFL Cup, the 28-year-old has been restricted to 64 minutes spread across 11 substitute outings in the aforementioned two other competitions.

According to Football Insider, there is the possibility of the playmaker moving to Elland Road at the turn of the year.

Will Leeds push for a deal?

The report claims that Leeds hold a long-standing interest in Buendia having failed to tempt him into a switch during the summer.

Former scout Mick Brown, a regular contributor to the outlet, claims that admiration remains in the player despite his lack of game time.

Brown said: "He's got a good reputation at Aston Villa, but he's not exactly shone there. I don't think Unai Emery fancies him as a part of his team, so he'd be open to letting him go.

"One thing Buendia does give you is the ability to play wide or in the middle, so that gives you that added dimension to your team and a different option.

"So I understand the interest is there, but I think they also have reservations about him."

Do Leeds need Buendia?

With 41 goals having been scored in their 22 Championship matches, Leeds do not necessarily need another creative player for their squad.

Although their leading marksman is Joel Piroe with seven goals, Daniel Farke has players who are contributing from all over the pitch.

Brenden Aaronson, Daniel James, Wilfried Gnonto, Largie Ramazani and Manor Solomon would all be ahead of Buendia in the pecking order.

That may theoretically result in the player assessing his options before making a decision, aware that he can ill-afford another period where he is not provided with regular minutes.

Written by

Darren Plant