Leeds United’s main target for the summer transfer window will be a defensive central midfielder to provide cover or even to replace Kalvin Phillips.
This is according to football journalist Pete O’Rourke, who has been speaking to This Is Futbol amid the recent reports on the future of the Leeds midfielder.
Do Leeds need better options in central midfield?
Yes
No
It has been claimed the Yorkshireman is firmly on the radar of Manchester United this summer with the Red Devils set to enter the window under Erik ten Hag.
Regardless of whether the 26-year-old does depart Elland Road, with just two years remaining on his current deal, O’Rourke believes a central midfielder will be Leeds’ main target.
The Whites still do not have their Premier League status confirmed for next season, however, it seems some attention may have been turned to the summer window already:
“Main priority probably defensive cover for Kalvin Phillips or even a midfielder to replace Kalvin Phillips if he was to leave – worst-case scenario for Leeds,” said O’Rourke.
TIF Thoughts on O’Rourke’s comments…
We have to agree with this thinking given the injury issues the Whites have experienced this campaign in that area of the pitch, particularly with Phillips himself.
Their main midfielder has missed a large chunk of the campaign through injury and there have also been injuries to other central midfielders like Adam Forshaw, who will now miss the rest of the season.
Injuries aside, it is apparent Leeds are not blessed with quality options in midfield – Phillips aside – so an upgrade could certainly boost Jesse Marsch’s squad for the new campaign.
In other news: ‘Marsch is really upset’ – BBC man reveals who left the Leeds United manager furious vs Palace