Six games into the new Championship campaign, Leeds United find themselves at the top of the league table, having dropped just four points so far. Marcelo Bielsa has started to make an impact on the squad, but the Argentine should not be convinced with the squad at his disposal. He could make a number of additions in January as well and one player he might yet land is former Newcastle United star Yasin Ben El-Mhanni.
The 22-year old was a transfer target for the Whites in the summer. El-Mhanni is currently a free agent, after failing to land a new deal at St James’ Park this year. It is now understood that a host of clubs in Europe are monitoring his situation for a move. The Sun claims that Belgian outfit Standard Liège have made contact with a player. But can Bielsa afford to not sign him?
Born and brought up in Chelsea, El-Mhanni joined the Premier League in 2016 but has just two appearances for the senior side. Rafa Benitez was happy to let him leave the club as a free agent this summer, which shows that trust, or the lack of it, that the manager had in the player.
A pacey winger who loves to take on players; El-Mhanni is versatile and can also play in a central role. With quick feet and superb technique, the 22-year old proved too hot for many a defensive line in the U23 leagues. His close control and ability to beat players in one-on-one situations consistently makes him a dangerous player.
He does have to work on his finishing, but his ability to cut in from the flank and create chances for his side could make him a considerable asset for Marcelo Bielsa. He has decent skill, great vision to pick a pass and the quality to be a star player at Leeds United. At just 22, he also is a long-term option and would be a decent acquisition for Bielsa.
His controversy with Peter Beardsley is what unsettled him at St James’ Park. But that should not stop Bielsa from giving him a chance at Elland Road. Leeds United currently use Pablo Hernandez and Ezgjan Alioski on either flank in a 4-1-4-1 system. Jack Harrison has acted as the backup on the wings, but Bielsa does not have too much quality in the squad to replace any of these first-team stars.
This is where El-Mhanni could be a game changer for the Whites. The 22-year old can take his time to get used to the Championship and under Bielsa, would only improve as a player. He can be a real match winner on his day and the system at Elland Road could make him all the more effective.
He may take time to prove himself with Leeds but El-Mhanni has the potential to be a first-team star for a club like Leeds and could be a wild card this season. With interests pouring in from all around Europe, Bielsa should make a move quickly to try and keep him in England.
