OPINION
Leeds United must make a move for wantaway Aston Villa centre-half James Chester, after it was reported by the Daily Mail that Championship rivals Stoke and Premier League outfit Brighton are keeping tabs on the Wales international.
It is no secret that the key to Aston Villa’s success last season was consistent defensive play, only allowing 42 goals throughout their Championship campaign, representing the second-lowest total by a team.
Leeds’ defence, on the other hand, was the team’s Achilles heel last term, as the Yorkshire giants allowed a massive 64 goals during their torrid season.
Chester, thought to be available for around the same price that Aston Villa paid West Brom at £8million, must be a top priority target for new boss Marcelo Bielsa, who must sure up Leeds’ leaky defence if he is to mount a serious promotion challenge.
The Wales international started alongside former England captain John Terry at the heart of Steve Bruce’s defence, and aided the team in reaching the Play-Off final, before being undone by Fulham.
Yet with Aston Villa’s current financial crisis, the White’s could be able to land Chester on a cheap deal, as the Midlands outfit struggles for cash to comply with financial fair play.
Leeds could take advantage of this, and look to Chester’s newfound playoff experience as the Whites push to achieve their aspirations of Premier League promotion.
Should Leeds manage to secure a deal for the Wales international, he would make a formidable partnership with Pontus Jansen, much like the one he made with Terry at Villa Park.
Chester has Premier League experience having played in England’s top division with both Hull City and West Brom, and this experience would become invaluable should Leeds manage to sign him.