Leeds United have reportedly cooled their interest in Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz, despite earlier reports linking the player with a move to Elland Road. The Championship winners were initially looking to bolster their attacking options. However, the high asking price and the imminent arrival of another striker have changed their plans. Muniz may now be on his way to Serie A.
Leeds United end pursuit of Rodrigo Muniz
According to a report, Leeds United had shown interest in Rodrigo Muniz. The Whites were keen to reinforce their offensive unit by signing another striker this summer, even after landing Lukas Nmecha. As a result, the 24-year-old Fulham centre-forward emerged as a target for the newly promoted Premier League club.
However, the 2024/25 EFL Championship winners have ruled out a summer move for the South American attacker. This decision comes after striking an agreement to complete a Bosman move for Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Meanwhile, a move to Serie A club Atalanta may be on the cards for the Fulham striker, with the Cottagers keen on recouping €45 million from his sale.
Rodrigo Muniz’s time at Fulham
Rodrigo Muniz has experienced a mixed time since joining Fulham from Flamengo in August 2021. The 24-year-old has been with the West London outfit for nearly four years. However, he has only been a regular at Craven Cottage since the 2023/24 season. Muniz has often found himself behind Raul Jimenez in the pecking order for strikers at Fulham.
The Brazilian striker played less than 1,500 minutes across 36 appearances in all competitions. However, he contributed 13 goals, scoring 11 times and providing two assists. Meanwhile, the player’s market value remains high. Widespread reports had linked him with Leeds United during the summer transfer window.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin move impacts Leeds United transfer strategy
Leeds United’s initial interest in Rodrigo Muniz made sense. The Whites have been searching the market for a striker this summer, despite completing a move for Lukas Nmecha. However, having allowed Mateo Joseph to join RCD Mallorca on a season-long loan deal, Leeds United must sign another striker. This is especially true considering Patrick Bamford’s uncertain future at Elland Road.
So, Muniz was a viable target, and reports suggested that Leeds United remained in the hunt for the Fulham striker despite interest from Atalanta. However, the 2024/25 EFL Championship winners have now cooled their interest in the player.
Fulham’s demand of €45 million for Muniz contributed to Leeds United’s decision. The imminent arrival of Dominic Calvert-Lewin on a Bosman move to Elland Road also played a role. Therefore, a move to Serie A may be on the cards for the 24-year-old Brazilian striker, with Atalanta in talks with Fulham over a deal.
Ultimately, Leeds United’s decision to pursue Dominic Calvert-Lewin has reshaped their transfer strategy. Rodrigo Muniz will likely seek opportunities elsewhere. Whether he lands in Serie A with Atalanta remains to be seen, but his future certainly lies away from Elland Road.
