Leeds United could soon be ready to make a big move in the January transfer window, with reports saying the club has made contact to sign Gonzalo Plata from the Brazilian football league.
The Brazilian winger, who currently plays for Flamengo in the Brazilian Serie A, could be the next big target for Daniel Farke’s side as they look to fix their attacking problems.
Leeds is desperate for goals after a poor Premier League start
Leeds United have struggled badly in front of goal this season. With only ten goals scored so far in the Premier League, they sit just one point above the relegation zone.
It’s been a frustrating run for fans, with attackers like Dominic Calvert-Lewin failing to find the net regularly. Lukas Nmecha managed to score at the weekend against Nottingham Forest, but that game still ended in a 3-1 defeat.
Football expert Danny Murphy spoke earlier this season about Leeds’ lack of firepower, saying both Burnley and Leeds “don’t have enough quality up front.” Those words now look even more accurate as Leeds’ problems continue to grow.
With Farke’s side struggling to convert chances, the club’s recruitment team has turned its attention abroad, and one of their main targets now appears to be Gonzalo Plata from Flamengo.
Leeds United eye bold move for Gonzalo Plata
According to South American reports, Leeds have already approached Gonzalo Plata to sign.
Journalist Fabricio Lopes revealed that the Brazilian football league side Flamengo is open to letting the winger leave in the January transfer window.
The reason behind this decision seems to be a mix of off-field and attitude issues.
Plata recently caused trouble in Brazil after being spotted at a nightclub before an important game, leaving Flamengo frustrated. That’s now opened the door for clubs like Leeds to make their move.
However, Leeds aren’t the only Premier League side interested. Both Bournemouth and West Ham are also said to be watching closely, which could make it a tricky race for Farke and his team.
Why Leeds wants Gonzalo Plata
Despite some off-pitch concerns, Plata’s football ability is not in question. The Brazilian winger has already made 45 appearances for his national team, scoring eight goals.
For Flamengo in the Brazilian Serie A, he’s managed 17 goal contributions in 63 games, showing he can create and score goals.
Scout Jacek Kulig even called Plata “exceptional,” praising his speed, close control, and attacking creativity.
The player’s style fits well with what Leeds are missing, someone direct, quick, and confident in the final third.
At only 25 years old, Plata still has time to develop, and the Premier League could be the perfect stage for him to grow further.
Leeds’ current problems in attack
Leeds’ biggest issue right now is finishing. No player on the team has scored more than two goals this season.
The top scorers so far are Joe Rodon, Lukas Nmecha, and Noah Okafor, all on two goals each. That record shows just how much Leeds need a new spark in attack.
Here’s a look at Leeds’ top scorers this season:
| Player | Goals |
| Joe Rodon | 2 |
| Lukas Nmecha | 2 |
| Noah Okafor | 2 |
| Sean Longstaff | 1 |
| Brenden Aaronson | 1 |
| Anton Stach | 1 |
| Dominic Calvert-Lewin | 1 |
If Leeds can bring in Gonzalo Plata this winter, it could provide a much-needed boost in attack and add competition for places.
A risk worth taking?
Of course, there’s some risk involved. Plata has never played in the Premier League before, and adapting from the Brazilian Serie A to English football can be difficult.
But with Leeds sitting dangerously close to the drop zone, the gamble might be worth it.
If he can bring his pace, skill, and creativity to Elland Road, Plata could become a key figure in Farke’s survival plans.
Fans will be hoping the club acts fast and seals the deal before another Premier League side beats them to his signature.
The January transfer window could be massive for Leeds United. Bringing in someone like Gonzalo Plata from the Brazilian football league might just be the spark they need to turn their season around.
If Leeds can sign Gonzalo Plata, it would show ambition, belief, and a real push to stay in the Premier League.
Now, all eyes are on Elland Road to see if the Whites can get this deal done.
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