Former Ross County defender Leo Hjelde says he couldn’t turn down the chance to work with ‘the best manager in the world’ Marcelo Bielsa at Leeds United.
The Norwegian centre-back has signed a four-year deal with Leeds United after the English Premier League club showed an interest in him while on loan at Ross County. Then-manager John Hughes compared Hjelde to Virgil Van Dijk and his stock has risen significantly since the comparison.
Leo Hjelde has signed for Leeds United. (Photo by Rob Casey/SNS Group via Getty Images)
Hjelde made 12 appearances for ‘the Staggies’ and scored one goal as they secured their Scottish Premiership safety last term. He said of his move to Leeds United: “I’m really delighted to sign for this massive club. It’s been going on for quite a while now, so just getting the deal over and done with is such a great feeling.
“I feel like Leeds United is the right club for me. I really like the way they play. I think they have the best manager in the world right now. Just looking at where the club is heading in the future – I want to be a part of it.”
The Norwegian was a potential target for County this summer after impressing on-loan from Celtic but Hughes departed as manager earlier this summer, replaced by Malky Mackay. County face Aberdeen at Pittodrie on Sunday in Premiership action.
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