If the latest reports are to be believed, Pontus Jansson is all set to follow Hadi Sacko to Leeds United over a permanent deal. The Whites endured a frustrating end to the 2016-17 campaign of the Sky Bet Championship as they failed to earn a playoff spot owing to their sporadic run of form during the concluding stages of the season despite having shown a lot of promise early on. Nonetheless, it is apparent that Leeds United are looking forward to constructing themselves as a formidable outfit in the upcoming term and are aiming to keep their group cohesiveness intact.
Jansson had been one of the success stories in the English second division during the season which just concluded after making a loan switch to the Elland Road from Torino. The 26-year-old was a rock solid customer at the heart of Garry Monk’s defence and mustered 34 appearances, whilst which he garnered 1.6 tackles, 1.8 interceptions, 10.1 clearances and 1.2 blocks per game on an average apart from bagging 3 goals and an assist. He thoroughly impressed the Leeds United faithful and no wonder why the West Yorkshire based club are keen to hand him a permanent deal.
Jansson is a quality defender who barely puts a foot wrong, is a calm and composed player in the backline and his excellent blocking and tackling skills make him a compelling prospect. Besides, he doesn’t refrain from getting into the tight areas to cater to his defensive duties, is barely seen losing possession and reads the game meticulously. By signing him on a permanent basis, Monk’s successor would not only lay his hands on a player with proven pedigree but will also get a leader on the pitch who doesn’t shy away from fulfilling the responsibilities that are placed on his shoulders.
On the other hand, Sacko’s deal is no longer a contemplative one as the Frenchman has been a three-year contract with Leeds United lately. Having arrived from Sporting CP in the summer of 2016, the 23-year-old impressed in patches, with his blistering pace earning him a lot of admirers. However, the opinion of the football fraternity is a divided one as Sacko lacks in deriving substantial output and succumbs, more often than not, in the final third. Nonetheless, with the age factor by his side, he should brush himself up and return the favours to Leeds United for showing confidence in him.
Statistics Credits: WhoScored
