OPINION
Leeds United need to bring in a new defender ahead of next season and should look no further than Premier League warhorse James Collins.
The Whites will be left with just Pontus Jansson and Liam Cooper as their senior options for the next campaign, meaning manager Paul Heckingbottom has to recruit well to launch a promotion bid in the Championship.
News outlet Claret&Hugh report that West Ham defender Collins is “certain” to be shown the London Stadium exit doors in the summer.
The 34-year-old will see his contract with the Hammers expire in the summer and it would be the perfect timing for the Yorkshire giants to try swoop in for his signature.
Initially Leeds fans may raise their eyebrows over the suggestion due to his age, but they only need to look over at how well 37-year-old John Terry has done at Aston Villa.
Collins is an experienced defender that would bring great leadership and quality to the backline at Elland Road.
The Wales international has Premier League know-how and has even performed admirably this campaign when called upon during his 14 appearances in all competitions.
Collins is tactically astute, a beast in the air, and would form a brilliant partnership alongside Jansson if given the opportunity.
He has played 278 times in the Premier League and picked up experience at clubs West Ham, Aston Villa and Cardiff City.
Leeds’ shaky defence has been a big reason behind their failure to reach the play-offs this season and adding a veteran defender to fix them would be very wise.
He is nicknamed the ‘Ginger Pele’ by supporters and would be a very popular addition in the long run.