Marcelo Bielsa on Leeds United loan moves, transfer speculation and striker's Premier League readiness

The head coach was tight lipped when it came to the prospect of players arriving at Elland Road before the transfer deadline next month.

He preferred not to talk about the club's plans in the transfer market and would not be drawn on Leeds' interest in Udinese midfield star Rodrigo De Paul.

The Argentine playmaker caused a stir on social media this week when he responded to tweets from Whites fans with a crossed fingers emoji, apparently signalling his hope that a deal could be struck to bring him to the Premier League side. He then deleted the tweet and his account.

Reports in Italy say the price tag is a sticking point between the two parties but a move could yet happen. Leeds are also keen on Zagreb centre-back Josko Gvardiol, an agressive, highly rated Croatian youth international.

"I don't like to talk about speculation as a lot of things can happen," said Bielsa.

"I would rather talk about players when they actually arrive and not beforehand, I prefer to express myself when signings have been completed."

But he did reveal that loan moves away from Elland Road would be explored. Huddersfield have been keen on Robbie Gotts for weeks while Jordan Stevens is close to a season-long loan move to Swindon Town. Ryan Edmondson has already moved to Aberdeen on loan until January and although an injury in his first week saw him return to Thorp Arch for treatment, Leeds were satisfied that it was not as serious as first thought and he has been able to link up with the Pittodrie outfit once more.

"All the players who won't have a chance in the first team we will try to get an option for them to go out to another club," said Bielsa.

The club smashed their transfer record earlier this summer to bring Spanish international striker Rodrigo to Yorkshire and he made his first start in last night's Carabao Cup defeat by Hull City.

Bielsa is not yet prepared to start the former Valencia man ahead of first choice forward Patrick Bamford, but believes Rodrigo is well-placed to step in should Leeds need him.

"He is already ready [for Premier League football]," said Bielsa of the new man.

"He won't start the game at the weekend but he is in a good condition to start if we need him to."