Charlie Taylor’s 12-year stint with Leeds United ended in the summer of 2017 when the left-back opted to sign with newly promoted side, Burnley on a four-year contract. Taylor’s exit has left a massive gap in the position with Gaetano Berardi primarily fielded in the season so far.
However, Berardi is not a traditional left-back and is an injury concern for the manager, Thomas Christiansen.
The club brought in highly regarded Cameron Borthwick-Jackson on loan from Manchester United to be a starter at left-back, but he has looked the same as he did at Wolves, and surely has no future at Leeds.
Christiansen has played five different players at left back this season in all competitions, and the fact that experienced winger Stuart Dallas has looked the best should tell you all you need to know about the status of the position.
With the January transfer right at your doorstep, the Peacocks should bring in either of the following players :
George Friend (Middlesbrough):
The 30-year-old has lost his first team spot to Fabio Da Silva in the Middlesbrough team this season. Friend has been a long-term servant of the club with 215 appearances under his belt and has a lot of experience in the English game. His talents are currently being wasted on the Boro benches with just 903 minutes of game time this season.
Standing at 6 feet 2 inches the Barnstaple born defender can bring a lot of defensive stability to the Leeds backline as well threaten the oppositions with quality deliveries from the left.
Luke Shaw (Manchester United):
Luke Shaw’s 3 year period at Manchester United might come to an end this January, as the club looks to get rid of his services for a price of over £20m. He has fallen way below the pecking order in the left back position at the club after Ashley Young and Daley Blind.
Judging by his recent performances the 22-year-old’s talents are undeniable and still has the potential to be one of the best left-backs of England.
Although he comes with a heavy price tag, Shaw’s quality can be a valuable addition to the Leeds lineup.
Joe Bryan (Bristol City):
Bristol city left-back was formerly targeted by Leeds in the summer but none of the rumours materialised. Ever present in the starting lineup of the Robins, Bryan has established himself as one of the best left-backs in the EFL Championship.
With another 18 months left on his contract, Leeds should pursue the 24-year-old services aggressively.
