Ever since the January transfer window closed, it seems that Daniel James is getting out of bounds for Leeds United with every passing week. James was reportedly close to signing a new contract with the Swans, but he is likely going to take his time to come to a decision. The Whites came perilously close to signing him in January, but the move fell away under spectacular circumstances. Leeds were reportedly willing to pay £10m for the Wales international.
James was having an okayish season until then. However, once he got into the limelight after the January transfer saga, the Wales international just took his game to the next level and showed the world clearly why Bielsa was willing to pay £10m for him. Now it seems like the other clubs have caught on as well as the likes of Manchester United and Liverpool have been recently linked (Wales Online) with a move for him.
Out of bounds for Leeds now?
It just seems like James is going to be a distant dream for Leeds United now. Without Premier League promotion, they are unlikely to stand any chance of getting him to Elland Road. Even with top-flight football, James might prefer a move to other established Premier League clubs after the recent reports.
Leeds United will undoubtedly keep on repenting the fact that they weren’t able to land him. On the other hand, Swansea would be glad that they kept hold of him in that window. There is no doubt in our mind that he can fetch close to double of what Leeds United were willing to pay.
How missing out on him in January affected the Whites?
Lack of signings has troubled Leeds United on the pitch as they failed to sustain their good form until the end of the season. With injuries to various players, Bielsa’s hands have been tied in terms of player selection, and his side desperately needed a player who could have changed things in the attacking third.
Why is he highly regarded?
James’ significant assets are his pace and work rate. He has shown that he can replicate the results at the top level as well as seen from his international performances and in the FA Cup tie against Manchester City. The youngster troubled some top defenders of the Premier League in that clash, and it is clear that James has the game to thrive in the English top flight as well.
With Liverpool and Manchester United entering the race to sign him, the Whites are unlikely to sign the winger in the summer transfer window. Their only hope could be by winning promotion, but even then that might not be enough to lure the 21-year-old.
