With the January transfer window just a few weeks away, teams will be sizing up opportunities to bolster their squad for the second half of the season. Leeds United have had a strong start to their campaign, but they would be aware that they tapered off last season during the crunch phase. Injuries to key players like Pablo Hernandez and Kemar Roofe troubled them in the latter half.
Hence, many United faithful would want to see their team reinforce their squad in the January transfer window. Former Leeds United striker and BBC commentator Noel Whelan recently claimed that he had heard whispers that Leeds United could look to do some business in the winter transfer market.
Whelan reveals what United’s plans could look like in January
Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan said, ”We still need to strengthen in January. I hope Victor Orta is looking and I’m hearing whispers that he is. We need another striker, especially if Arsenal recall Nketiah, another goalkeeper if Kiko Casilla gets a long ban and possibly another centre-back. I think Orta is looking at three January signings, although whether we would sign three is another matter. When you look at the heart of the defence and upfront, those will be Orta’s priorities.”
Why we don’t see Whelan’s wishes coming true
Whelan might indicate Orta could be looking at three signings, but the club’s Football Director stated that the Whites would have a quiet January transfer window. However, things could change if Nketiah is recalled by Arsenal which seems like a possibility at the moment, and Kiko Casilla is handed a lengthy ban if he is found guilty of racially abusing Jonathan Leko.
In that case, the club might look to bring in a striker and goalkeeper in January. Phil Hay recently revealed that the Whites would not look to add a striker if Nketiah stays put at the club. A move like that would make sense as even Nketiah has found it hard to get game time. Moreover, unless a player is completely integrated into the system, Bielsa is unlikely to give him game time. Hence a new signing might have to wait for one or two months before he gets ready to play for Leeds United.
As for a centre back we don’t see the club going after one. Bielsa will likely push back Kalvin Phillips in defence if there are too many injury or suspension issues in defence. Luke Ayling is another option after he was used last season in the centre back position. Hence Bielsa will likely rely on his squad’s versatility again in the coming months.
