£25m claim regarding Leeds United, Fulham, Aston Villa and Everton-linked Southampton star Leo Scienza emerges

The 27-year-old arrived on British shores in the last summer window, joining Southampton from Bundesliga outfit 1. FC Heidenheim.

He penned a four-year deal at St Mary’s but his scintillating form in the Championship has fuelled talk of interest from the Premier League.

A winger who can also operate as an attacking midfielder, Scienza has delivered seven goals and nine assists across 33 league outings this term.

Leeds are among those to have been linked with the Brazilian, who is also thought to be of interest to Aston Villa, Everton, Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur.

Leo Scienza claim

According to Brazilian outlet RTI Esporte, there is a £25m release clause in Scienza’s contract that could pave the way for a Premier League move.

The report has suggested the Saints are aware of interest from elsewhere and are working to renew Scienza’s contract terms.

A lot may hinge on Southampton’s fate in the Championship, as the fourth-placed Saints are challenging for promotion.

After he was recruited by the Saints, Southampton’s sporting director Johannes Spors said: “Leo is someone we feel can adapt well to English football. He is a creative player, a progressive dribbler and a strong set-piece taker.

“He is a player who has consistently produced goals and assists in every league he has played, and is an exciting addition to our forward line.”

Always a place for flair

Leeds boss Daniel Farke has shown a clear preference for physical and mobile workhorses this season, although there is always a place for flair.

This was evident on Monday (April 13), when the fleet-footed Noah Okafor fired the Whites to a 2-1 win over Manchester United with a brace.

Scienza has adapted well to the rough and tumble of English football, suggesting he could be a shrewd addition for a Premier League club.

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