Leeds United appear to be stepping up their pursuit of Dario Essugo, the highly-rated defensive midfielder on loan from La Liga side Las Palmas from Sporting CP.
The Whites are keen to secure the services of the 19-year-old as they look to bolster their squad for a critical promotion push to the Championship.
According to the football journalist Alan NixonLeeds are preparing a loan-to-buy proposal for Essugo to fend off competition from Premier League giants Chelsea and other interested clubs.
This is not Leeds’ first attempt to sign the Portuguese sensation – they previously made a move for him in the summer, but Sporting opted to send him to Las Palmas to further develop him.
The stellar rise of Dario Essug
Essugo has been a standout player in La Liga this season, starting all 12 appearances and even scoring a goal. His consistent displays in Spain have only increased his reputation as one of Portugal’s most exciting young talents.
After joining Sporting’s academy at the age of nine, Essugo made history by becoming the club’s youngest ever debutant aged just 16. He later broke LuÃs Figo’s record as Sporting’s youngest ever starter and holds the distinction of being Portugal’s youngest player to feature in the UEFA Champions League.
Under contract with Sporting until 2027, Essugo is highly rated by his parent club, making any potential deal a major coup for Leeds.
If Leeds manage to bring Essugo to Elland Road, the youngster would add much-needed depth and quality to Daniel Farke’s midfield.
Known for his composure, ball-winning ability and tactical intelligence, Essugo could provide a solid defensive presence while supporting the team’s transition game.
Currently second in the Championship table, Leeds are well placed for automatic promotion but face fierce competition in the second half of the season. Bolstering the squad with Essugo’s talent could be crucial in maintaining their momentum and cementing their bid to return to the Premier League.
Farke has already admitted it that he will have money to spend in the January transfer window, if he needs it. They have been linked to several players, including Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher.
The coming weeks will reveal whether Leeds can outbid other bigger clubs and finalize a deal for the teenager.
