Marcelo Bielsa has admitted that Leeds United have lost a good player in Ronaldo Vieira, after the midfielder completed a move to Sampdoria earlier in the week.  

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Vieira’s transfer developed quickly over the course of the last week, with the 20-year-old’s departure confirmed by Leeds during the week, with the midfielder departing for a reported £7.7m.

The Leeds academy product made over 70 first-team appearances for the Whites, establishing himself as a member of the senior squad over the course of the last two years.

Bielsa has been discussing the youngster’s move to Italy in his pre-match press conference ahead of Leeds’ clash with Stoke City.

The 63-year-old told the Yorkshire Evening Post: “He (Vieira) was a player involved in the project. The club decided to sell him and I adapt to this decision.

“I can’t say he is not a good player. He is a good player. If Sampdoria bought Ronaldo it indicates he is a good player. The sale of Ronaldo happens at the same time as the injury to (Adam) Forshaw in a similar position but we can solve this situation. We can find solutions.”

Vieira’s departure has coincided with an injury to Adam Forshaw, with the midfielder set to miss the start of the Championship season, leaving Leeds short in central midfield.

Kalvin Phillips has been moved into a more defensive role by Bielsa over the course of pre-season, which is where he is expected to feature tomorrow afternoon against Stoke.

Mateusz Klich and Lewis Baker are two other options Bielsa could turn to in a midfield role, with both featuring regularly over the course of pre-season.

The Verdict  

Bielsa clearly rated Vieira, who over the course of his time in Leeds’ first-team proved to be an excellent option in midfield.

However, the 20-year-old didn’t seem to be a guaranteed starter under Bielsa, who will surely have had some say in allowing the player to depart for Italy.

Now, Leeds need to be sourcing a replacement, with Bielsa’s midfield options looking incredibly weak.

Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!