OPINION
Leeds United are in desperate need of signing a new left-back in the January transfer window and should plot an ambitious move to sign Middlesbrough defender George Friend.
The Whites currently have Gaetano Berardi playing in the full-back position, but he is much more comfortable on the right flank and Thomas Christiansen needs a traditional left-back for the second half of the season.
Cameron Borthwick-Jackson has made a very small impact at Elland Road since his loan arrival in the summer and the club’s supporters are crying out for a new signing in the New Year.
Leeds should seriously consider a swoop for Friend, who has endured a frustrating season so far at Championship rivals Boro.
The 30-year-old is an experienced left-back that would slot perfectly into the starting XI of the Yorkshire giants and help fix their defence.
He has made just 13 appearances across all competitions this season and has slipped down the pecking order.
Garry Monk had been in charge at Boro up until his dismissal last Saturday and Friend became an outcast under his tenure, despite being a mainstay in the side during his previous years at the Riverside.
Leeds should try to reduce the full-back from his difficult season and could give him guaranteed first-team football if he made a January switch.
Friend has made 215 appearances for Boro since he arrived in 2012 and is very dependable in defensive position.
The Englishman has also chipped in with 18 assists in that time and the left-footed ace can be a real threat in the final third.