The former Sevilla director, who garnered a reputation for recruiting precocious talents at economical prices during his time with the Spanish club, has moved to Elland Road in a Director of Football capacity.

Orta, who lists Zenit Saint Petersburg and Elche as former employers, is renowned for his possession of an encyclopedic knowledge of the game.

Indeed, among his admirers is Aitor Karanka, who is presently linked with the vacant managerial role at Elland Road and who played an integral role in facilitating Orta's move to Middlesbrough in December 2015. Speaking of the appointment, the former Boro impresario said: “It’s an amazing step for us because his knowledge about football - not just about Spanish football but about every place, anywhere, his knowledge is amazing.”

Upon having now entered the employ of Leeds United, as the club prepare to veer sharply toward the adoption of a continental sporting approach, Orta commented: “I am excited by the opportunity to become Director of Football at a great club like Leeds United.

“Once I had met with Andrea Radrizzani and spoken to him about his plans to take the club forward, I knew that this was the right move for me and I am confident that we can achieve great things in the coming years.”

With brief remarks, United owner Andrea Radrizzani spoke joyously of the move: “I am delighted to welcome Victor to Elland Road, I have been impressed by his knowledge of the game, his extensive scouting network and his desire to help us achieve our objective of getting Leeds United back to the Premier League."

This news will doubtless do little to dispel persisting rumours that the aforementioned Aitor Karanka will succeed Garry Monk as head coach, and one would now expect the club to act expeditiously in determining just who will be the man to lead United into the forthcoming campaign.

Photo: Action Images

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