Leeds told to finalise Bielsa contract quickly after Orta reveal - pundit

Marcelo Bielsa needs to sign a new contract with Leeds United within the next month, according to Gabby Agbonlahor.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Aston Villa and England forward suggested leaving it any longer may have a detrimental effect on recruitment.

The Argentine's current deal is set to expire next month as he famously only ever signs 12-month contracts.

Director of football Victor Orta recently told the Athletic's Phil Hay Show podcast that he wants to finish the club's business by June.

That will allow all new signings to have a full pre-season with the club.

Football Insider understands the Whites are confident of signing Stade Brest defender Romain Perraud after "encouraging talks".

Leeds made the left-back, 23, their top transfer target as Ezgjan Alioski's contract is set to expire next month.

Asked whether Bielsa signing a new deal will have a big impact on any potential recruitment, Agbonlahor told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley: “100 per cent.

“They need to know what players they can get in. If he’s not signed in the next month it’s wasting time identifying players for transfers.

“I’m sure he’ll want to get that sorted and Leeds will want to get that sorted as soon as possible so they can start planning for next season.”

Last summer, Leeds added Rodrigo and Robin Koch at the end of August - weeks before the Premier League season started.

Diego Llorente arrived in September while winger Raphinha made the switch from Rennes on deadline day at the beginning of October.

In other news, Bielsa is trying to push a Leeds United big earner out of the exit door after an update.