According to a recent report by The Athletic’s Phil Hay, Leeds United are planning to convert Jack Harrison’s loan deal into a permanent move at the end of this campaign. The same source had reported earlier this month that the Whites have the option to sign the English wide player, who is currently playing on loan from Manchester City, for £8m next summer.
Why Harrison Needs To Stay At Elland Road Beyond This Summer
Harrison is currently edging towards the end of his two-year loan spell at Elland Road, but there is no denying that he has gotten used to Marcelo Bielsa’s tactical set-up and playing style. He has taken great strides in terms of improving his performances from last season.
The 23-year-old has been one of Bielsa’s most productive players in the attacking department after netting five goals and bagging six assists in 38 appearances for his club in all competitions. However, he still has a lot of room for growth as far as his attacking returns are concerned. Despite performing at a high level, Harrison has often been guilty of missing some decent goal-scoring chances in front of goal. He also has to improve his decision-making if he wants to become a top player someday.
Given the luxury of world-class players in Pep Guardiola’s squad at the Etihad Stadium, it is unlikely that the Stoke-on-Trent born winger will be able to make an impression if he returns to Manchester in the off-season. Hence, staying at Yorkshire seems like the logical option for the player at this stage of his playing career. Furthermore, a promotion to the Premier League with Leeds could enhance his chances of playing at the highest level week in week out next season.
What Does The English Winger Offer On The Pitch?
Harrison has successfully adjusted to Bielsa’s attacking playing style as evidenced by his average of 1.6 shots, 2.0 key passes and 1.2 dribbles per 90 minutes in the EFL Championship this term (stats via whoscored). The English talent’s offensive contributions have been immense behind Leeds’ promotion push this season, so it is no surprise that they want to retain his services beyond this summer.
The ex-New York City FC wide player can use his pace to make some darting runs with the ball down the left flank. He is not afraid to work his socks off for the benefit of his team. However, Harrison can be a bit wasteful in the final third as he can sometimes take too much time on the ball. He needs to learn how to make more calculated decisions in high-pressure situations. If the Whites can seal promotion back to the English top-flight, then Harrison could prove to be a useful squad player for Bielsa next season. But the jury is still out on whether he will be able to cope with the high intensity of top-flight football.
Why Bielsa Needs To Orchestrate A Permanent Deal For Harrison
Harrison has developed a good understanding with Pablo Hernandez and Stuart Dallas down the left side of the Leeds midfield, so the Argentine tactician cannot afford to sacrifice his team’s chemistry if they play against the best teams of England next season. Therefore, the West Yorkshire outfit need to make it a priority to trigger the £8m option when Harrison’s loan deal at Elland Road comes to an end later this year.
