Depth is a necessity
Leeds are down to just two senior centre-backs following the loss of Swansea defender Kyle Bartley at the end of the season after he returned to his parent club.
No permanent deal for the former Arsenal youth player appears to be on the horizon at Elland Road, leaving Christiansen with just two senior centre-backs to choose from.
Pontus Jansson and Liam Cooper both suffered injuries and suspension last season and both are likely to miss games in the 2017-18 season and cover is needed, with Hanley providing both depth and quality in England’s second tier.