Tottenham and Leeds were rejected by Nicolo Zaniolo back in January as the Italy international eventually joined Galatasaray.
Spurs – according to Rudy Galleti – held extensive talks with the attacking midfielder throughout January, but he eventually decided to snub their interest after Roberto Mancini advised him to move to Italy (Il Messaggero).
In regards to Leeds, Andrea Radrizzani – the Chairman at Elland Road – actually admitted that his side wanted to sign Zaniolo, although it seems Mancini’s advice made his mind up in the end.
Now, the 23-year-old has done something that might make Tottenham and Leeds fans feel disappointed about missing out on his signature.
What’s the story?
Well, Zaniolo scored on his Süper Lig debut earlier today to hand Galatasaray a 1-0 win over Kasimpasa.
As you can see above, the Italian – who cost Galatasaray €29.5m (£26m) – took his chance superbly in the 57th minute with a composed left-footed finish into the bottom corner.
Of course, Tottenham and Leeds supporters will argue that Turkey’s top-flight is not comparable to the Premier League in terms of quality, and they would have a point.
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However, there is no denying that Zaniolo is a quality player.
Leeds needed Zaniolo more than Tottenham
In our view, Leeds needed Zaniolo more than Tottenham did.
Even someone as talented as Richarlison is struggling for a role in the starting XI under Antonio Conte right now, with the Brazilian questioning the Italian for dropping him in an explosive interview on Wednesday.
Therefore, Zaniolo also may have found it tough to receive a start.
However, Leeds – who find themselves in a relegation battle – would have benefitted from the quality of Zaniolo, as they find themselves struggling to finish their chances off this season.
Nevertheless, Zaniolo has moved on, and Leeds must find a way to get themselves out of 19th place in the Premier League without him.
In other news, ‘I hope’: Burnley boss Vincent Kompany issues 40+ word reaction to new Manchester City links
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