Good Deal: Leeds United set to sign player who was named Young Player of the season

Leeds United are exploring the possibility of signing Real Salt Lake’s Diego Luna, who was recently named the MLS Young Player of the Season. The 21-year-old attacker has been impressive in the MLS, scoring nine goals and registering eight assists in 36 appearances this season.

Luna’s performances have attracted interest from several European clubs, including those in Belgium, Italy, Holland, and Spain. However, Leeds United are understood to have shown the strongest interest in the player so far.

According to sources, Leeds have been tracking Luna’s progress for several months and have explored the conditions of a potential deal. While no agreement is thought to be imminent, the Whites are keen to bring the talented youngster to Elland Road.

Luna’s current contract with Real Salt Lake runs until December 2026, and it does not contain a release clause. His estimated market value was around $4 million (£3 million) earlier this summer, but it has since risen due to his impressive performances.

The skilful playmaker has also made headlines with his international career. He has been capped once by the USMNT and made 77 minutes for the senior side in a 1-0 friendly defeat to Slovenia in January. However, Luna has since expressed his openness to switching international allegiances to Mexico, who he qualifies to represent through his parents.

Real Salt Lake owner David Blitzer has connections in Europe, which could facilitate a potential transfer. Blitzer is also a general partner at Crystal Palace, a limited partner at FC Augsburg, and owns Spanish club AD Alcorcon, Belgian outfit Beveren, and Danish side Brondby.

In August, Real Salt Lake sold Colombian winger Carlos Andres Gomez to Stade Rennes in France for a reported initial fee of £8.3 million. This deal could serve as a benchmark for future negotiations involving Luna.

Leeds United’s interest in Luna is a clear indication of their ambition to strengthen their squad and compete at the highest level. With the January transfer window approaching, it will be interesting to see if the Whites can secure a deal for the talented youngster.