According to reports from Leeds Live, fullback Luke Ayling has signed a new deal with Leeds United which will keep him at the club until the summer of 2023. The Whites have concentrated on tying down some of their key players after they secured the futures of Liam Cooper, Stuart Dallas and most importantly, Kalvin Phillips earlier this year.
Ayling has emerged as a crucial player for the Whites, but he is currently down with an injury and is yet to play this season. However, he is closing in on a return. Ayling has become the mainstay at right-back, but it remains to be seen whether the Englishman earn his spot back in Bielsa’s first-team. Stuart Dallas has made an impressive start to this campaign which won’t help the English defender’s cause at Elland Road. Ayling should still be back in contention for selection as he has started to feature for United’s u-23 side.
What can Ayling offer?
The 28-year-old is a typical Bielsa player as he works his socks off when he is on the pitch. His energy and ability to drive the ball forward from the back make him a standout option. The former Bristol City player is also able to link up play well in the opposition half. Last season, he appeared in 42 games in all competitions and contributed with six assists.
Bielsa even went on to use him as a centre back during an injury crisis in defence so his versatility to play in different positions is also a significant plus. His fitness, work rate and tenacity mean that he always gives his 100% whenever he starts for the Whites.
Right decision to give him a new deal?
Giving Ayling a new deal could be the right decision as he is a leader on and off the pitch and is one of the most valued members of Bielsa’s roster. However, we are slightly surprised with the length of the contract as Ayling will stay at Elland Road until he is 32.
If Leeds United gets promoted to the Premier League at the end of this season, then they might need an upgrade for Ayling as he will probably struggle with prove his worth in the English top flight. A three-year deal would have been ideal. However, offering him a more extended contract means that, the club can go on to sell him in future instead of worrying about him running down his deal and becoming a free agent. All in all, it is just about the right decision from Leeds United’s management team.
