Whelan tells Leeds fans to 'watch this space' after Romano's De Paul update
Noel Whelan insists Leeds United can still tempt Rodrigo De Paul to sign despite reportedly entering negotiations with Atletico Madrid.
The former Whites hitman, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claims Atletico won't challenge for the Spanish title again next year.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claims Atletico Madrid have opened talks to sign De Paul in cash plus player deal.
In early May, Football Insider revealed Leeds have continued to closely monitor De Paul’s situation and he is one of their top targets.
The midfielder picked up nine goals and 10 assists in Serie A this year as Udinese finished 14th.
Whelan claims De Paul will have to choose between playing in the Premier League or finishing third in La Liga next season.
"It depends where he wants to play his football," Whelan told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
"Does he want to play in the best league in the world or go to La Liga and finish and second or third next year?
"That's what it is. He would be in the Champions League but there will be a reaction from Barcelona and Real Madrid next season.
"They're the giants. They will be strengthening. It's entirely up to him and where he feels better suited.
"It means someone at Leeds is doing a good job because if Atletico are interested then Leeds' scouting network is working.
"We need to watch this space, he has two massive clubs looking at him and it looks like he has a choice."
Atletico won La Liga as Barcelona and Real Madrid suffered horror seasons.
Leeds finished ninth on their return to the Premier League.