Leeds United are in the hunt to sign Swansea attacker Daniel James but won’t be paying anywhere near £20million, according to Mirror reporter David Anderson.
The reliable journalist claimed via his personal Twitter account on Tuesday morning that James, 21, is being viewed as a possible replacement for Samuel Saiz at Elland Road after the Spaniard left to join Getafe earlier this month.
Leeds like Swansea’s Wales winger Daniel James – but won’t be paying £20m as reported by some. James is one option as Leeds look to replace Samuel Saiz. They are also close to a deal for Real Madrid reserve goalkeeper Kiko Casilla. #LUFC
— David Anderson (@MirrorAnderson) January 15, 2019
It is understood that the Wales international will not cost £20million, as reported elsewhere.
Good move for Leeds?
James is a quality young player who would add some very good strength in depth at Elland Road.
Marcelo Bielsa does appear keen on signing wingers this month and James certainly fits the bill as he can play on either wing or up front as a centre-forward.
He has made 18 appearances in all competitions for Swansea this season, scoring one goal and supplying four assists in the process.
The 21-year-old made his debut for Wales in November and is definitely someone with a great deal of potential.
Leeds fans should be very happy if Bielsa is able to lure James to Yorkshire this month.
This is Futbol rating 8/10
Likely to happen?
If Bielsa wants to replace Saiz, wouldn’t he want a player who is natural at playing in the centre of the pitch as a playmaker?
Saiz did play out wide at times for Leeds, but it was hardly his natural position.
Pablo Hernandez has been moved into the middle since the Spanish playmaker left, so perhaps James is being viewed as a replacement for Hernandez out on the wing, rather than Saiz in the centre.
It seems like it’s early days in this particular transfer hunt, but there could be a chance of it happening.
This is Futbol rating 5/10