MusaLeeds United Move for “True Gladiator” as Firpo Exit Nears, Says JournalistLeeds United have reportedly made a move to sign a “true gladiator” who could potentially replace Junior Firpo, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.
Leeds Assessing Defensive Options Amid Firpo UncertaintyJunior Firpo’s future at Elland Road has been uncertain for some time, and it now appears increasingly likely that the left-back will depart this summer.
Real Betis, his former club, have already submitted an offer to bring him back.With Firpo’s contract set to expire at the end of June, Daniel Farke’s side have started evaluating potential replacements. Multiple reports suggest that Aston Villa’s Alex Moreno is among those being considered.
However, with Firpo possibly leaving on a free transfer, Leeds may also be targeting cost-effective options. Jacobs has revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that the club has initiated talks to sign a new left-back.According to the GiveMeSport reporter, Leeds have approached Atletico Madrid’s Reinildo, who is expected to be available on a free transfer following the upcoming Club World Cup, when his contract ends.Leeds could face competition from other clubs, with Sunderland and Nottingham Forest reportedly making proposals as well.
Reinildo also has interest from Turkey and Saudi Arabia.Experienced Reinildo Could Be a Strategic AdditionMozambican international Reinildo featured sporadically for Atletico Madrid during the 2024–25 season, making 19 La Liga appearances. Though he spent time on the bench, he brings considerable experience from the Champions League and Europa League.Dubbed a “true gladiator” by scout Jacek Kulig, the 31-year-old’s leadership and experience could prove valuable in helping Leeds avoid relegation next season.
However, questions remain about whether he represents a clear upgrade over Firpo.Statistically, Firpo has outperformed Reinildo in several key defensive metrics over the past year—despite being better known for his attacking contributions.
In fact, Firpo recorded 14 goal involvements in the Championship last season.Defensive Stats (per 90 minutes)Metric Reinildo FirpoTackles 2.13 2.27Clearances 2.82 3.51Aerial Duels Won 0.89 2.10Given this data, it’s debatable whether Reinildo would offer a significant improvement. If a return to Betis falls through, Farke might consider giving Firpo another shot in the Premier League.—
Follow-Up Questions:Q1: How do Reinildo’s defensive stats compare to other left-backs in the Premier League?Q2: Could Firpo’s attacking contributions outweigh his defensive shortcomings in Farke’s system?Q3: What kind of impact could Reinildo’s Champions League experience have on a Championship-level team?—
A1: Reinildo’s stats, while respectable, are below average compared to top Premier League left-backs, particularly in aerial duels and clearances. Players like Lucas Digne or Pervis Estupiñán tend to post higher defensive numbers, though system and team strength play a role. Reinildo would likely be more solid defensively than attack-minded full-backs but may lack Premier League adaptability.
A2: Yes, especially if Farke uses an aggressive, attack-heavy formation where full-backs are expected to support forward play. Firpo’s 14 goal contributions in the Championship are notable, and if paired with a defensively solid center-back or wing partner, his shortcomings could be mitigated.
A3: Reinildo’s experience at the top level could provide leadership and composure under pressure—valuable assets during high-stakes matches or promotion pushes. However, experience alone won’t guarantee success unless matched with current form and physical readiness.
Musa
