OPINION
Leeds should consider moving for Newcastle defender Achraf Lazaar as he is free to leave St James’ Park this summer.
The Chronicle report that the 25-year-old is one of the players that will be let go by the Magpies to help them trim the size of their squad.
He played a small role in the club’s promotion to the Premier League last season and failed to make an impact following his arrival in England last summer.
However, Leeds should be closely monitoring the situation of Lazaar and try to swoop for his signature.
The Whites have already signed Vurnon Anita this summer following his release from Newcastle and must now try to raid them directly.
Lazaar is a left-back by trade and his attacking exploits have seen him be used as a left winger too during his career.
Thomas Christiansen is in desperate need of a left sided defender ahead of the new campaign as Gaetano Berardi is the only senior option in the squad.
Lazaar would fill a much-needed position in the Leeds squad and was never given a fair test to prove his qualities last season at Newcastle.
The Morocco international does boast Serie A experience from his time at former club Palermo in Italy and would be able to make a serious impact if given a run of straight games.
He has featured for Rafael Benitez’s side during pre-season and reminded people of his qualities, with his incredible speed and trickery giving him the edge over most full-backs.
Leeds have sign Charlie Taylor leave Elland Road to join Premier League club Burnley and Lazaar could turn out to be a strong replacement if signed.