OPINION
There is little doubt that Leeds United need some serious changes in their squad if they are going to hit the heights they want to reach.
The last campaign began with hopes of a fight for a play off finish but ended with the Whites flouding in mid-table mediocrity, Paul Heckingbottom managing to guide them to a 13th placed finish.
While aims of a top six spot might have been ambitious by Andrea Radrizzani and the rest of the Leeds board, it shows just how much hope they have for the club, and with Heckingbottom now gone, the former Barnsley boss sacked on Friday, it proves they will continue to push for success.
So where do the Whites need to strengthen this summer?
That question should probably be where do they not need to recruit, for there are far too many weak links in the first team.
One area which looks suspect is at the heart of defence, with the centre backs failing to live up to expectation.
Pontus Jansson was hit-and-miss for the year, Liam Cooper looked out of sorts and Matthew Pennington has returned to Everton after his loan spell, leaving just youngsters Conor Shaughnessy and Paudie O’Connor as back up.
So who should the Whites bring in?
Well, if the claim of West Ham insider ExWHUemployee is to be believed, the Irons’ New Zealand international Winston Reid could be up for sale, and he would be a stunning buy for the Whites.
The club would listen to offers for him. As I said on the radio show, he is vulnerable at moment and club have concerns regarding his regular injuries and it is likely to get worse. Whilst we are not actively looking to sell-if the right offer comes in we could listen https://t.co/V2TrmqgbsY
— ExWHUEmployee (@ExWHUEmployee) May 31, 2018
His international experience, with 23 caps under his belt, plus his game time in the top flight would be a massive improvement on what Leeds currently have at Elland Road.
At 29-years-old, he has plenty of years left in him and could be the rock on which the club’s future success is built.
Wages could be an issue but if Leeds are really wanting to push for a play off spot and promotion, then splashing the cash is the way forward, and with Reid being a cut above much of the Championship, would be a stunning first signing for the Whites this summer.