Bargain hunt in America: European clubs look for out-of-contract Los Angeles man Jose Cifuentes
Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 18.04.23. | 15:50
Leeds United, Espanyol and Rangers are interested in the Ecuadorian midfielder
A host of European clubs is reported to be interested in Ecuadorian midfielder Jose Cifuentes, who currently plays for Los Angeles FC, the club competing in the MLS. According to US-based reporter Tom Bogert, Leeds United are the most likely destination for the 24-year-old South American.
Rumours have surrounded the midfielder for a few months - since he entered the final year of his contract in Los Angeles. His current deal expires at the end of the calendar year, and there are now suggestions that a move to Europe will happen in the next transfer window.
Have heard Leeds United, Rangers and Espnayol as potential options for LAFC & Ecuador int'l midfielder Jose Cifuentes.
— Tom Bogert (@tombogert) April 18, 2023
I'd imagine a lot of teams in Europe are interested with his contract expiring at the end of 2023. Either an undervalued summer transfer or free in the winter. pic.twitter.com/CLl4X5EhFB
It has been claimed Leeds and Rangers are among the sides who are keeping tabs on Cifuentes. With the Elland Road club having a history of shopping in America, they are considered the most likely destination for the player who became the MLS champion with LAFC last year.
The Ecuadorian is also attracting interest from Spain where Espanyol are interested in him as well.
Cifuentes started his professional career in his homeland with Universidad Catolica and has been playing for Los Angeles since 2020. He also represented his country in the World Cup in Qatar last year.
With his contract running out, he would be available for a low fee in the next transfer window or as a free agent in January 2024. Leeds could use such a bargain, although their current priority is to remain in the Premier League and not allow Cifuentes to experience football in the RFL Championship.
