We are into the final week of the English transfer window, and we might see some action from quite a few clubs. Leeds United started the window brightly by securing the signing of Helder Costa among others. But the departure of Pontus Jansson has left a sour taste. The club is still reportedly interested in Liverpool’s Ryan Kent. However, Jurgen Klopp recently ruled out a loan move for him.
Reports recently emerged that the Whites have the means to pay £10m for Kent this summer. Former Leeds United striker and BBC commentator Noel Whelan also believes that we can see a late raid from the Yorkshire side for the Liverpool winger.
Whelan on chances of Leeds United signing Kent
Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan said, ”Ryan Kent is available now for £10million, not for loan, and I can see Bielsa signing him, he’s one he would want. That’s why Bielsa was watching him in the Bradford-Liverpool [pre-season friendly] match. I’m sure he would have been there [at Oakwell] to speak to Klopp and get a relationship going with Liverpool over a deal.
“We could have a Bamford-style scenario with Kent. He is certainly one who would fit into the Leeds style of play, as he is aggressive, fast, two-footed, direct and can create and score goals.”
Leeds United signed Patrick Bamford for big money last season, and it was almost out of nowhere. Whelan thinks that could be the case with Kent as well. The Yorkshire side hasn’t spent big since Bielsa took over the reins at the club, but they have been willing to spend big for the right man.
Will Kent be worth £10m?
The English winger had a stellar campaign for Rangers last season which saw him win Rangers’ young player of the year award. Kent is known for his direct style of play, and he is tough to defend against in one on one situations. He has got the pace and dribbling skills to go past defenders, and he is more than a traditional winger who just hugs the byline.
The 22-year-old also improved his finishing skills and ability to pick out the final ball in and around the box. In today’s market, £10m seems to be a fair valuation as he is still very young. What would impress Bielsa, even more, is the Englishman’s impressive work rate. Kent usually works his socks off, and when off the ball, he presses and harasses the opponents continuously. Bielsa should definitely look to spend the big bucks on him this summer.
