Barcelona Want Riqui Puig To Join Leeds United On Loan Because Of Marcelo Bielsa

Marcelo Bielsa can sharpen Riqui Puig's tactical acumen and understanding of the game, according to Barcelona, who in turn want the young Spaniard to join Leeds United on loan, say reports in Spain.

It has been an up and down journey for Puig in recent months.

The 21-year-old was promoted to Barcelona's senior side for the 2020/21 campaign after coming through La Masia and for many, he was seen as a nailed on star for the future.

The youngster has, on several occasions, impressed for the Catalan giants, with a midfield masterclass in a 5-0 win against Alaves being one of the high points. Puig recorded two assists and four key passes, finishing the game with a passing accuracy of 90%.

Image: PA

Image: PA

But despite a positive start to life in the first team, Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman reportedly told the youngster that he cannot rely on him for the foreseeable future.

In fact, Spanish publication SPORT claimed the Dutchman asked Puig to go out on loan to get first team minutes.

Which brings us on to the latest reports in Spain. To further his overall development, Barca see Premier League side Leeds United as the perfect fit for the 21-year-old, who will be able to learn from the experienced Marcelo Bielsa at Elland Road.

Bielsa, known for his tactical intricacies, will be able to integrate Puig into his side's possession-based style of play.

Bielsa sitting on his bucket at Anfield. Image: PA Images

The young midfielder would no doubt flourish under the strict Argentine and clearly there is some interest from Puig's party. 90min reported last week that Leeds have been offered the chance to sign the Spain U21 international on loan, with his agent already getting in touch with the Premier League side to gauge whether a move would be possible.

So how good is Puig? A reference from teammate Lionel Messi in 2018 says everything you need to know.

"Messi quickly realised that after Riqui started training with the first team." a report from SPORT said in 2018.

"He wanted him on his side and, of course, the kid was happy to have his idol in front of him. He was not the only one who was astonished. Luis Suárez, Andres Iniesta - a player whom he has many resemblances towards - were also captivated."

Thoughts on the prospect of Riqui Puig in the Premier League? Will he flourish under the Marcelo Bielsa regime?

Let us know in the comments.

Topics: Riqui Puig, Football News, Football transfers, Football, Barcelona, Premier League, Leeds United, Transfer news, La Liga

Jack Kenmare

Jack Kenmare is a writer at SPORTbible. He's interviewed some of the biggest names in sport, including Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Pele, Carles Puyol and Tim Henman. He dabbles in all things sport but football is his biggest passion. He was once hit in the head by a wayward strike from Nicky Butt and lived to tell the tale.

@jackkenmare_