Leeds United can consider themselves one of the Premier League’s best-performing outfits for this January window, having added four new faces all of whom will likely have a big part to play in the future of the club.
Fans and pundits alike have raved over the newly-bolstered squad assembled by Victor Orta and Jesse Marsch, with journalist Phil Hay, in particular, echoing this sentiment: “In terms of the way Leeds United altered their squad, they’ll feel as happy as most Premier League clubs about the way they used January”.
With a new striker, midfielder and centre-back all entering Elland Road, they were decisive in outlining targets and incisive in their execution.
However, it was not all perfect.
There were one or two deals that did slip by them when they seemed so close, with a proposed move for Tete arguably the most disappointing to miss out on.
Having reportedly been in advanced discussions for the Brazilian, to see him move to Premier League rivals Leicester City was a hammer blow. Especially given that his reported valuation of £21m was snubbed in favour of a loan move.
To miss out on this tricky winger is made all the more frustrating given his similarities to former Elland Road favourite Raphinha, who departed the club in the summer.
His absence has been felt heavily, as the 26-year-old played a starring role in their narrow escape from relegation last season.
Having scored 11 times and assisted a further three, the Barcelona man was synonymous with cutting in from the right flank onto his deadly left foot.
This is one of many traits he and Tete share.
The Shakhtar Donetsk flyer was enjoying blistering form for Lyon this season, with six goals and three assists after just 17 Ligue 1 matches. As such, when compared to other wingers across Europe, he ranked in the top 17% for non-penalty goals and the top 10% for assists.
However, given his samba roots, he is at his core an entertainer.
His presence in Yorkshire could have got fans off their seats once more, to rejoice in the second coming of the man who saved their club from relegation with such finesse.
Such is his maverick nature, he was lauded by the CEO of Shakhtar Donetsk Sergei Palkin as a “hurricane”. He expanded upon why he had earned this title: “This means that he brings confusion into the opposition defence, being extremely difficult to stop. He has some serious technique, shooting and passing.”
Although there is plenty of cause for celebration after what must be deemed a successful transfer window, there will remain a hint of regret about what could have been with this failed Tete deal.
