As Leeds United prepare for a crucial transfer window under manager Daniel Farke, one name has emerged on their radar — Igor Paixão. The Brazilian winger, currently playing for Dutch side Feyenoord, has attracted serious interest from Elland Road, with Leeds reportedly exploring a deal to bring him to England.
But who exactly is Igor Paixão, and why are Leeds so keen to secure his signature?
From Brazil to Europe: Paixão’s Journey So Far
Born on June 28, 2000, in Macapá, Brazil, Igor Paixão’s rise to European football is a story of perseverance and talent. Growing up in a quilombola community — settlements founded by descendants of enslaved Africans — his journey to professional football wasn’t an easy one. He joined Coritiba’s academy at just 14 years old and made his first-team breakthrough in 2019. A loan spell at Londrina in Brazil’s third division offered him valuable senior experience, but it was upon his return to Coritiba that Paixão began to make his mark, helping them achieve consecutive promotions to reach Brazil’s Série A.
16 SECONDS FROM KICK OFF 💨
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) December 11, 2024
What a finish from Igor Paixao only 16 seconds after the kick-off to double Feyenoord's lead 🤧
📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/Lky4wyvWY0
In August 2022, Paixão took the leap to Europe, signing a five-year contract with Feyenoord. Since then, his career has gone from strength to strength. He has played a pivotal role in Feyenoord’s Eredivisie title win, KNVB Cup triumph, and Johan Cruyff Shield victory. His contributions have been significant — with 39 goals and 29 assists across all competitions for the Rotterdam club. Notably, his 2024-25 season was a standout campaign, recording 16 goals and 10 assists.
Style of Play: Why Leeds Want Him
Paixão is a versatile forward, most comfortable operating from the left wing but also adept on the right or through the middle. His playing style is characterized by explosive pace, exceptional dribbling ability, and a keen eye for goal. He thrives on cutting inside onto his favored right foot, often using his agility and technical skill to unlock defenses. Beyond his attacking flair, Paixão also demonstrates work ethic and positional intelligence — attributes that would fit well into Daniel Farke’s high-energy system.
In addition to his attacking output, Paixão’s Champions League experience — two goals and four assists in 11 appearances last season — underlines his readiness for a higher level. Former Feyenoord coach Rob Jacobs even went as far as to say Paixão is “better than Cody Gakpo,” labeling him Feyenoord’s most dangerous attacking player.
Leeds United’s pursuit of Igor Paixão has echoes of their previous success with another Brazilian winger, Raphinha. Paixão himself has spoken of his admiration for Raphinha, describing him as "an example for me and all of us Brazilians." For Leeds, Paixão represents a potential successor to the creativity and attacking threat Raphinha once provided.
Why This Move Makes Sense for Leeds
Leeds United’s ambitions to stay in the Premier League hinge on adding proven quality to their squad. Igor Paixão fits that bill. His combination of flair, productivity, and versatility offers exactly what Leeds need as they aim to strengthen their attacking options. With his Champions League pedigree and proven success in a highly competitive Eredivisie, Paixão could bring the kind of creativity and end product Leeds have been lacking since Raphinha’s departure.