OPINION
Leeds United lost their final game of 2018 on Saturday as Hull City put in a brilliant display to topple the Championship leaders in a 2-0 win at Elland Road.
The result will obviously come as a blow to the Whites and manager Marcelo Bielsa, but their three-point advantage at the top of the table illustrates just how far they have come already this season.
That being said, reinforcements are needed in January if Leeds want to guarantee promotion, and attack is an area where they could do with an extra body or two.
One player they have been linked with in recent months is Alaves winger Ibai Gomez, who played under Bielsa at Athletic Bilbao between 2011 and 2013.
The 29-year-old Spaniard has been in good form for the surprise package of La Liga, with his three goals and two assists helping Alaves to fifth place heading into 2019.
While Leeds had previously looked in a good position to sign Gomez in January, Bilbao have now entered the fray and a return to the Basque country is looking likely for the winger, according to AS.
The Spanish outlet claim that a £3.6million switch is on the cards for Gomez in January, and Leeds look like they are set to miss out on Gomez.
However, until a deal is done there is always a chance, and the Whites must now step up their hunt for Gomez, who would be a perfect January addition.
His experience at the top level in Spain would be perfect for their promotion push, and the failure of players like Ezgjan Alioski and Jack Harrison to impress this season means that there is space for a new face in the wide areas.
£4million or so is a small price to pay for a player of Gomez’s calibre, and Leeds must now pull their finger out in their hunt for the 29-year-old.