Leeds United Enter The Race To Sign Ligue 1 Playmaker: A Shrewd Choice By Bielsa | OneFootball

According to journalist Mohamed Toubache, as cited by GFFN, Leeds United have expressed interest in Farid Boulaya. The Metz attacker has emerged as the latest option for Marcelo Bielsa, as he looks to shore up the creative department.  The player is expected to leave Metz this summer, and although he intends to join a club that plays in Europe, the Whites are hoping to initiate a discussion.

Who Is Farid Boulaya?

A product of the FC Istres youth academy, Farid Boulaya has been involved in the French footballing scene for a long-time now. During his time at Clermont Foot, FC Istres and SC Bastia, the attacker has gained valuable experience, but the player rose to prominence after joining Metz in January 2018.

The Frenchman instantly became a first-team regular at Metz, notching up over 100 competitive appearances. His tally of six goals and six assists were vital in helping the club secure promotion to the top-flight in 2019, with the playmaker also performing well in the top-flight.

In 61 Ligue 1 matches, Boulaya has been involved in 18 goals, 14 of which came in the 2020/21 campaign. A right-winger by trade, he has impressed the onlookers with his chance creation and skill on the ball, having averaged 2.3 key passes and almost two successful dribbles per game last season.

In addition to his quality going forward, Boulaya is known for his versatility as well. He can play on both flanks and even as a playmaker, if required, making him quite a coup for any club in the market this summer.

Stat courtesy: Whoscored

Ligue 1 2020-21, AS Monaco-Metz 4-0, FARID BOULAYA LIGUE 1 2020-21 AS MONACO-METZ 4-0 PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxITA

Is He A Perfect Option For Leeds United

Farid Boulaya is a talented playmaker who can make things happen in the final third. He might not be the most well-established option in the market, but he does offer a great deal of versatility, dynamism and work ethic in the final third.

It bodes well for Marcelo Bielsa, who is looking for reinforcements in the attacking department. The departure of Pablo Hernandez and Ezgjan Alioski, in particular, has left a massive void in Leeds United‘s creative unit.

But in Boulaya, Bielsa can find himself a talented operator who can not only be a replacement for Hernandez but may also cover for the wide attackers like Jack Harrison and Raphinha. His style of play is ideally suited to the Argentine’s tactical philosophy as well.

The report further suggests that the Metz attacker is available for a fee of just €4.5 million this summer, as his contract expires at the end of next season. It would make him an absolute bargain for Leeds United, as they look to push for a European spot next season.