Monk can have Hernandez if Leeds pull off summer swoop for title-chasing forward
COMMENT
Leeds United manager Paul Heckingbottom has recently claimed that his squad does not need a major overhaul in the summer - but there are already signs that there will be changes when the transfer window re-opens.
Pablo Hernandez's deal expires in just a few months and that has led to the Mirror [print edition, Sunday 18 March, page 65] reporting that former Whites manager Garry Monk is planning to reunite with him at Birmingham.
Although the majority of Leeds supporters want the club to wrap up a new deal for Hernandez, 32, after a good season in West Yorkshire - they will soon be made to forget about him if they are able to pull off a move for Benfica forward Diogo Goncalves.
Portuguese newspaper Record has reported that Andrea Radrizzani is looking to emulate Wolves' recruitment drive by eyeing up the 21-year-old, who is a client of super-agent Jorge Mendes.
It is understood that the Championship leaders were keen on Goncalves themselves, but opted against signing the wide-forward who is known for his blistering pace and ability to play across anyway across the attacking line.
He has made 13 appearances in all competitions this season, supplying two assists as Benfica chase the title in Liga NOS.
The Portugal Under-21 international would be an improvement on Hernandez and any other winger currently on the books at Elland Road.
Monk can have the ex-Spain international if Victor Orta and Heckingbottom are able to entice Goncalves to England, especially because of his immense potential that is bound to attract top-tier attention from across Europe in the future.
Not only would Goncalves have an instant impact in the first-team and help with the promotion push in 2018/19, he would also be a great investment for the future.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites have terminated this 24-year-old defender's deal at the club.