Leeds United have been rocked by two back to back losses, but they still managed to hold the top spot on the table as chasing teams also lost some ground in the title race. Bielsa has repeatedly played down (Leeds Live) United making any major signings in the January transfer window. But the club really needs to think about its stand as the Whites have a wafer thin squad at the moment.
Meanwhile, they are being heavily linked (Daily Star) with a move for Stuart McKinstry who is a 16-year-old right sided midfielder from Motherwell. The youngster signed his first professional contract last summer, but the Whites seem to be keen on him as they are preparing a £400,000 move for him.
McKinstry is yet to make any senior appearances for Motherwell, but it is clear the Whites like what they see in him as not many would offer such a price for a 16-year-old who is yet to make his senior team debut. It is believed that the young prodigy is set to come to West Yorkshire to talk about a deal this week.
In no way, McKinstry would have an impact in the current senior squad and the Whites are seeing him as a prospect for their academy. The academy has definitely served Leeds well this season as even with some major injuries, the Whites have kept themselves in the race for the direct promotions spot and the likes of Jack Clarke, Jamie Shackleton, Aapo Halme and William Huffer have done well when they have filled in for more senior players.
Bielsa clearly trusts the youngsters at the club, and he hasn’t hesitated in putting them in a spot of bother. McKinstry can definitely join the list of players and maybe he could turn out to be another Jack Clarke for them.
The Whites do lack a bit of depth in wide areas especially after Samuel Saiz’s departure as Pablo Hernandez has been shifted to play in more central areas. Manchester City loanee Jack Harrison has struggled for most parts, and Ezgjan Alioski too has been found wanting. So the Whites can do with a wide player who can make an instant impact in the squad. However, we highly doubt that player would be McKinstry.
Hopefully, the youngster would be able to adapt to life at West Yorkshire and come good in the next few years. The midfielder should definitely be excited to join the Whites as they are in firm position to move to the Premier League and he could probably make his debut in the English top flight someday.
