We are almost in the last leg of the winter transfer window, and it could very well be that Kiko Casilla is going to be the only signing for Leeds United. The Whites have been linked (BBC) with Swansea City’s winger Daniel James whose contract at the club is until June 2020. Reports earlier came out that Leeds United could sign him for £2.5m (Leeds Live). However, the Wales international recently opened up about his future and clearly indicated that he is not going anywhere in the ongoing transfer period.
James was quoted as quoted as saying, ”I’m enjoying my football at the moment, but to me, it’s all just rumours. From my point of view, there’s nothing concrete in it at all. Whenever anyone asks me, I just laugh. I haven’t heard anything, but I’m just concentrating on here.”
The way the winger is talking makes us believe that he isn’t interested in moving in this window. After a slow start to the campaign, the Swans are back in the race for the playoff spot, and recently they went past Sheffield United who currently occupies the third spot. Graham Potter too wouldn’t want to lose one his important squad members when they have so much to play for in the second half of the season.
James has managed 19 appearances in all competitions this season and has scored just a solitary goal. However, his work rate has been impressive, and the 21-year-old is a budding talent who can take his game to the next level. For the quoted amount, we think he could have been a decent bet as the Whites clearly lack depth in the wide areas.
Another advantage to the James’ signing would have been his flexibility to play anywhere across the final third. Predominantly a left winger, the 21-year-old can fill in on the right flank or as an attacking midfielder as well.
United have suffered a lot because of injuries and lack of depth, and it remains to be seen how long they would be able to carry on their juggernaut on the top of the table. They have lost three of their last four games, and Bielsa should add more depth and competitions for places in the squad.
Ezgjan Aliosi and Jack Harrison have been underperforming for quite a while but Bielsa doesn’t have too much room to manoeuvre so at the moment, he can’t drop either of them. However, it seems like the club will have to make do with whatever they have as James didn’t give any indication of a movement happening in the next few days of the transfer window. All in all, his signing would have been welcome news for Bielsa, and we would still hope that the Leeds gaffer makes a decisive move for the winger in the next few days.
