OPINION
Leeds United might have seen Matthew Pennington leave the club after his loan spell from Everton came to an end, but Marcelo Bielsa should be replacing the defender with experienced counterpart Ashley Williams this summer.
The Whites had the promising Toffees defender on a temporary deal for the entirety of last season and he played his part during their disappointing campaign, but in a surprise turn of event he ended up signing a new deal at Goodison Park.
His exit leaves new boss Bielsa with a distinct lack of experience in the heart of the defence, with just Pontus Jansson and Liam Cooper experienced options, and youngsters Paudie O’Connor and Conor Shaughnessy acting as backup.
The Argentine boss’ appointment has been ambitious from Leeds, and if a return to the Premier League is on the agenda, then signing top quality players must be step one of the plan.
Another raid on Goodison Park should therefore be on the cards, with the Daily Star reporting that the Toffees are ready to let 33-year-old Williams depart as part of a clear out under Marco Silva.
With 79 caps for Wales, 241 Premier League and 138 Championship appearances under his belt, the powerhouse defender has both the experience and ability to be a leader for the Whites and head the charge up the second tier table.
With Cooper and Jansson already at Elland Road, the trio could prove to be the platform which results in a resolute back line, and a platform for future success.