Transfer Speculation
As per one of the latest reports by Birmingham Mail, Leeds United are keen to lure Birmingham City’s Viv Solomon-Otabor to the Elland Road in the summer. The youngster has dazzled in his loan spell with Blackpool this season in League One. Apart from the Whites, he is being closely monitored by West Ham United and Derby County as well.
Fact File
Solomon-Otabor developed himself in the youth ranks of Hampton & Richmond Borough, Crystal Palace and Birmingham City and subsequently, he was promoted to the senior side of the Blues. Loan spells with Oxford City and Bolton Wanderers polished him considerably but his ongoing spell at the Bloomfield Road is proving to be a highly productive one.
Attributes & Prospects
Having signed for the Seasiders last summer, the 22-year-old has scored 5 goals in 43 appearances across all competitions this campaign and has also garnered 4 assists. He is a winger who possesses blistering pace in his legs and has showcased commendable work-ethic. Despite his young age, Solomon-Otabor has been a calm and composed figure in the final third and has made good use of the opportunities that he has received.
By no means is he a finished product but considering the calibre that he has shown, there is no denying that he could be a better player in the coming seasons. He needs to polish himself further and he needs to get the right guidance to take his developmental process to the next level. Having made his presence felt in the third tier of English football, an upgrade to the Championship might be a tempting option for him.
Do Leeds United Need Him?
Leeds Unites started the season in a superb fashion under Thomas Christiansen but withered away too soon in the league. After Christiansen got sacked, Paul Heckingbottom was handed the steering wheel but the players of the Yorkshire based outfit have flattered to deceive under the tutelage of the former Barnsley manager. Thus, it goes without saying that to enhance his side’s credentials next season, Heckingbottom needs to make good use of the summer transfer window.
Solomon-Otabor could be a good signing for Leeds United. Interestingly, the starlet’s contract with Birmingham City is set to expire at the end of next season and if Garry Monk’s camp fails to convince him for an extension, they might be forced to sell him in the summer transfer window. However, Heckingbottom must also pursue proven players in the summer irrespective of whether they sign Solomon-Otabor or not.
