Leeds United could table a bid to sign Bristol City attacker Callum O’Dowda if their interest in Swansea’s Daniel James comes to nothing, according to the Yorkshire Evening Post.
The newspaper claims that Leeds are yet to reach a deal over their top January target James, who is valued at over £3million by the Swans, and could turn to Republic of Ireland international O’Dowda if they have to move on.
It is understood that Marcelo Bielsa’s search for new attackers will be stepped up once the signing of Real Madrid goalkeeper Kiko Casilla is completed.
Good move for Leeds?
O’Dowda has been a good player for Bristol City.
The 23-year-old plays regularly on their left-wing and has also become a regular for the Ireland national side, so Leeds could certainly do worse than signing an established Championship and international player.
The former Oxford United ace can score goals and supply assists, so he could be a very valuable asset in the Whites’ hunt for promotion.
However there have to be doubts about whether he would be good enough in the Premier League if Leeds do achieve their dream return to the top-flight this season.
If so, the Yorkshire club could be spending a hefty fee on a player who will be effectively good enough for them for just a few months. That is why January loan signings have been so effective in the Championship in recent years.
This is Futbol rating 6/10
Likely to happen?
Signing O’Dowda hinges on whether or not Leeds can sign James, who is reportedly their top target.
It might make more sense to sign James as he is someone who is a bit younger and perhaps has more potential to be a Premier League player in the future.
It’s hard to tell at this stage what will happen, but it sure looks as though the Whites will be signing an attack-minded winger this month.
This is Futbol rating 5/10