Leeds boosted with player’s return after back injury
Leeds United are boosted with the return of winger Helder Costa after being ruled out for the rest of the season back in April.
The Angolan international’s last appearance of the campaign came against Manchester United at Elland Road.
He was wrestled to the ground by Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and was replaced by Mateusz Klich in the match.
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The former Portugal international played 22 league matches for the Whites this term, scoring 3 goals.
Costa was expected to be back in time for pre-season at Thorp Arch, but has returned early to work on his fitness, which is a boost for Marcelo Bielsa.
The 27-year-old has got to work in Lisbon, working with trainer Igor Sanchez.
Bielsa is not expected to have the full squad back for another fortnight or so, but Costa is eager to get to work before the rest of the squad.
Elsewhere, Leeds are reportedly interested in Lyon left-back Maxwel Cornet, but are unwilling to meet the French club’s demands.
It has been reported by The Sun that Leeds do not want to pay the £20m price tag set by Lyon, but will make an offer if his price drops.
The left-back has made 251 appearances for his current club scoring 51 goals and registering 29 assists.
The news of the Yorkshire club’s interest comes following a long period of doubt over the future of Ezgjan Alioski who looks set to turn down a new contract and leave Elland Road this summer.
Cornet can play as a left-back or as a winger on either flank and is known for his attacking ability.
The 24-year-old hasn’t spoken about leaving the club, but reports in France from GFFN have suggested the Ivorian is likely to be sold after Lyon signed Henrique Silva as a new left-back.
After an exceptional first season back in the Premier League after finishing ninth, Bielsa is looking to build on the teams success with the addition of new signings.
The Argentinian manager brought in six new signings to the club last summer and spent over £100m, but there is little information out of Elland Road about what the level of spending will be this year.
Bielsa has previously spoken about the need for a large squad and the heavy rotation required to keep up with the high demands of the Premier League.