Just a few days back, Daily Star reported that Leeds United are eyeing Nick Powell as a possible replacement for Samuel Saiz who is currently on loan with La Liga outfit Getafe. The Whites are expected to sell him permanently in the summer, and the club is going to target the Wigan playmaker now.
However, Leeds United are going to have some competition for the midfielder as Scottish giants Rangers are also said to be keen (Lancashire Post) on this 25-year-old. Leeds United were even linked with the former Premier League winner in the summer of 2018. Now that the player is going to be available on a free transfer then, there is a good possibility that the club could look to sign him.
Why Leeds United need an attacking midfielder?
Bielsa has done well to replace Saiz without diving into the transfer market in January. Since the Spaniard’s departure, Pablo Hernandez, Kemar Roofe and Tyler Roberts have played in that attacking midfielder’s role. All three have done relatively well, but one needs to remember that they would be better off playing in their natural positions.
This quick fix method might work in the Championship, but at a higher level, players will be found out. Leeds United are vying to move to the Premier League, and they will need a specialist player for the attacking midfield position.
What works for Powell?
Powell seems to be an intelligent operator as he is technically sound and has that footballing IQ which helps him in opening up defences. Apart from that, he is clinical in front of goal, and he has been more than just a goal provider for the Latics. The English midfielder is physically strong and that even allows him to play as a secondary striker. We think that the attacker can benefit immensely if he chooses to move to Leeds United in the summer.
Threat from Rangers
Rangers too would be desperate to get their hands on a player of this calibre as he is available on a free transfer. However, United should have the upper hand over the Scottish giants as they are close to moving to the Premier League.
Moreover, playing under a manager like Bielsa should attract the player. Powell got his big move to Manchester United at a young age, but he failed to produce the desired results. Now that he has improved and learnt his trade by playing in lower divisions, the player himself might be keen to prove his worth in the English top flight.
