Sheffield United attempt to second guess Leeds' starting eleven

The Spain international could make his debut against Chris Wilder’s side after agreeing a four year contract at Elland Road, commanding a reported transfer fee of £18m following his move from Real Sociedad.

Although Marcelo Bielsa would ordinarily be expected to leave Llorente on the bench, the centre-half’s experience could persuade the Argentine to name him in the starting eleven for the trip to South Yorkshire.

Capped five times by his country, Llorente started his career with Real Madrid - playing twice for Los Merengues - before moving to the Reale Arena in 2017. He played nearly 100 times following that switch to the Basque country, and has also represented Real Vallecano and Malaga on loan.

“I’m very happy to be here,” Llorente said. “I have a lot of energy with my abilities and think I can help add to this team.”

Although Robin Koch has started both of Leeds’ Premier League outings so far this season, Bielsa will be tempted to include Llorente in his plans after watching his team concede seven goals during those games against Liverpool and Fulham.

Aged 27, Llorente can also operate as a defensive midfielder and heads to West Yorkshire after Bielsa saw three bids for Ben White rejected by Brighton and Hove Albion.

Leeds, who are without the injured Pablo Hernandez for the meeting with United, must also decide whether to persist with Rodrigo in the number 10 role or select Tyler Roberts, who replaced him when Fulham were dispatched last weekend.

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