Leeds United Eyeing Summer Swoop For This Wolves Defender: Why Farke Must Make The Call
If a recent report from the Spanish outlet Marca (as quoted by Leeds Live) is believed to be true, Leeds United are weighing up a summer swoop for Hugo Bueno. But they are not alone in the hunt, with Dutch giants Feyenoord also exploring a permanent move for the left fullback following an impressive season-long loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The 22-year-old Spain youth international joined Wolves' academy ranks from CD Areosa six years ago. He was eventually promoted to their first-team squad to challenge and cover Jonny and Rayan Aït-Nouri on the left. After 48 appearances over the past two campaigns, the youngster was sent out on loan to the Rotterdammers for regular gametime.
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Wolves, meanwhile, parted ways with Jonny in January 2024, which saw Bueno being the second-fiddle to Aït-Nouri as the left wingback. While the emergence of the Algerian led to the Spaniard's loan exit, the club must now decide whether to sanction a transfer in the aftermath of Aït-Nouri's high-profile move to Manchester City earlier this month.
WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 24: Raheem Sterling of Chelsea shoots during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Chelsea FC at Molineux on December 24, 2023 in Wolverhampton, England. (Photo by)
Bueno had a hard time against England in the ongoing UEFA EURO U-21. Spain were outplayed in a 3-1 defeat, and Liverpool's Harvey Elliott taunted the Wolves prospect throughout the outing. His future will be further jeopardised if the Wanderers bring in a new name to replace Aït-Nouri, and Leeds United, who are in the hunt for a new left-back, could make the opportunity count in due time.
Why Leeds United Should Step Up The Chase
After two years in the Championship, Leeds earned Premier League promotion under the tutelage of Daniel Farke. However, the German boss may require reinforcements in several positions, particularly on the left, with Junior Firpo expected to return to Real Betis on a Bosman basis upon the expiry of his Elland Road contract.
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The Whites also have Sam Byram and Maximilian Wöber, but they only featured as the understudy to Firpo throughout the 2024-25 season. Byram's contract won't be renewed beyond this month, and Wöber, who does not belong to Farke's plans, could return to the Bundesliga amid interest from German outfits.
Leeds also have Alex Moreno in their shortlist, but the 32-year-old Aston Villa star has several suitors in Real Betis, Real Sociedad and Burnley. Reinildo Mandava is also a target, but the Atletico Madrid veteran received approaches from Sunderland, Nottingham Forest, as well as clubs in Turkey and Saudi Arabia, given his availability on a free transfer.
Bueno's attacking flair would help in transitions, but the gaffer must work on his defensive traits to prevent counter-attacking threats. He has a very high ceiling considering his age, and the Peacocks must step up the chase for the Spaniard, as he would offer a long-term solution in West Yorkshire.
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