Leeds United and Manchester United were identified as one of 18 European clubs watching Rio Ave and Sporting Lisbon on Monday evening, according to Record via the Yorkshire Post.

The Whites' representatives were reportedly spotted in Portugal - watching Rio Ave succumb to a 3-1 home defeat to Sporting on Monday evening in the Liga NOS.

But according to reports, Marcelo Bielsa's men were in fine company, with Premier League giants Manchester United one of reportedly 18 European sides monitoring the Portuguese League fixture.

Reports had surfaced last month, that the Whites were once spotted in Portugal watching three Liga NOS fixtures, and were then linked with a move to sign Benfica youngster Chris Willock, so it's clear that Bielsa thinks that Portugal is the place to be for fresh, upcoming talent.

After three successive league wins, United are back up to 2nd in the Sky Bet Championship table, four points clear off the playoff places after 20 league outings.

The Verdict

This is an interesting development for sure.

Leeds have been spotted in Portugal on more than one occasion now, so it's evident that Bielsa has an interest in signing up talent from Liga NOS, having already been linked with Chris Willock.

It could prove to be a smart move by the Whites as they look to cement their place at the top end of the Championship table.