Here is your Leeds United morning digest for Wednesday, November 18.
Simeone addresses Leeds rumors
Giovanni Simeone has not ruled out a potential move to England amid reports he is wanted by Leeds United.
The Argentine striker was linked with a move to Elland Road in the summer, but the Whites ultimately opted not to push hard for the Cagliari forward.
The striker only joined his current side in the summer but that doesn’t mean he would turn down a chance to join Marcelo Bielsa’s side.
"I am enjoying Cagliari but I would like to be able to change at some point in my career, that would help me to keep growing," he told Marca.
"Maybe in Spain or in England, which is another place that I like a lot. I always say that being in other countries makes you a better player because leagues and teams are different and I would like to keep growing.
"The feeling that I have for Atletico is different because my dad is there. I am obviously a fan of the clubs that he played for since I was a kid, but Atletico is a bit different.
"Each time my father played for Atletico I have put on their shirt and been a fan. Since I was a child, I have felt Atletico is my home, even though I never played there and never lived in Spain really.
"To have this feeling of a second home is a good feeling."
Orta teases Raphinha's Leeds impact
Victor Orta has billed Leeds summer signing Raphinha as the “complete player”.
The Brazilian arrived at Elland Road on deadline day from French side Rennes and has already made a strong first impression.
“We’ve been following him since he arrived in Portugal,” he told Portuguese newspaper Record
“He went from the lower divisions of Brazil to Guimaraes, arrived at Sporting and returned to succeeding, just like at Rennes.
“This sustained growth made us insist on the signing. He incorporates talent and a great physical level, making him a complete player.”
Leeds' biggest issues to solve in January
The January transfer window is fast approaching and it looks like being a busy time for Orta.
The Leeds chief will be keen to strengthen his squad if the opportunity presents itself, and he will not allow himself to be caught short when it comes to squad depth.
Orta will know of the squad’s frailties and Beren Cross has written about the biggest issues Orta needs to solve come the turn of the year.
The condensed window means the club will need to act swiftly and decisively. Marcelo Bielsa has helped guide the club to a position just above the relegation zone, but he will be ambitious to push further.
The highlight of the club’s January business last season was Manchester City winger Ian Poveda and if they can engineer a similar deal this January Orta will be pleased.
