This week, former Manchester City talent Noah Ohio joined Real Valladolid on loan from Utrecht. Victor Orta is in charge at the Spanish club and has revealed trying to sign the player for Leeds United.
The move to the second division in Spain comes after the attacker scored nine times in only eight games so far this season for Utrecht’s reserve side. Earlier in the current campaign, he gained experience of playing in the Europa League.
Real Valladolid presented the 23-year-old as their new signing last night, and Orta had a lot to say about him.
That’s when the Spaniard explained Leeds United wanted Ohio during his time at Manchester City.
Leeds United transfer didn’t come off
He said – relayed by El Norte de Castilla: “We saw him at the Kevin De Bruyne Tournament in June 2018 and he impressed us. It was difficult to swap Manchester City for Leeds United.”
Orta further explained he’s monitored the forward since the player’s time at Manchester City and feels fortunate to have finally signed him.
“We’ve followed him ever since. At the time, he was a dream signing because we couldn’t afford him, and now, eight years later, we’re fortunate enough to bring him to Real Valladolid.”
Ohio also spoke about the move, making it clear that Jude Bellingham has been in touch with him. He described the midfielder as his ‘best friend’.
“He’s very happy for me. He told me it was a great opportunity to join this great club, to prove myself in this league, and to take the next steps. He’s my best friend, we keep in regular contact, and he supports me in everything I do.”
The striker stated that he wasn’t in Utrecht plans and since this was clear, he was keen on a transfer.
“I wasn’t in their plans. But I only look forward, not back. Decisions are made, things happen. I’m focused on what I have to do here.”
Speaking of his playing style, Ohio said: “I think I have a nose for goal, and that’s what I can contribute to the team.”
Critics have targeted Orta for a number of transfer-related decisions since his time at Leeds United. He will hope that this move works out, especially since Ohio hasn’t consistently impressed in his career..
Real Valladolid are currently 12th in LaLiga2.
