According to the latest reports from the Daily Star, Leeds United are looking to revisit their January transfer window target Callum O’Dowda. The Bristol City winger refused the chance to sign a new contract with his current club and the Robins are willing to sell him in the next few months.
Leeds United approached the Irishman in January as well, but Bristol City were able to keep hold of their talented winger. The Whites had offered £10m for the winger just a few months back, but they will be reluctant to come up with a similar offer as O’Dowda is set to enter into the final 12 months of his contract.
Reports mention that owner Andrea Radrizzani is ready to back Marcelo Bielsa in the transfer market and he has assured the Argentine that there is enough funds to reinforce the side. The 15 times Ireland international can play down the left flank, and that is one area where the club desperately needs to add cover. The Whites came close to signing Daniel James in the January transfer window from Swansea City, but the move fell apart in the eleventh hour.
O’Dowda seems to be an alternate target now that James appears to be out of bounds as he is being linked with a move for Manchester United. The Irishman came up from Oxford United’s academy and joined the Robins in 2016.
The 24-year-old played in 35 games in all competitions this season and has contributed with five goals and five assists. His numbers might not be outstanding, but the Irishman is an integral part of Bristol City’s side.
Why Leeds United need a winger?
Leeds United used Ezgjan Alioski and Jack Harrison in the left wing position this season, but both of them were average at best. Alioski was found to be more suited as a fullback, and Harrison’s loan spell at Elland Road has come to an end. The Whites want to sign him, but reportedly Manchester City wants £20m for him which we don’t think Leeds United will pay (rightfully so).
Should the Whites sign O’Dowda?
O’Dowda’s standout assets are his pace and acceleration on the ball. He is also known for his impressive work rate, which Bielsa often demands from his players. However, his attacking return in the final third can definitely improve.
The Whites suffered from a similar problem in the season just gone by as they failed to find that telling moment in the final third even though they dominated their games. O’Dowda seems to be a decent bet, but he is not a standout option. We feel that he can be an upgrade over Harrison, who was just about okay at best.
