Noel Whelan has recently urged Leeds United to make a move for Odsonne Edouard during an interview with Football Insider. The former Leeds United midfielder believes that the Celtic forward could be a perfect target for Marcelo Bielsa’s side if they win promotion to the top-flight next season.
“We need players that will make a difference. I would be looking at the Celtic striker – Edouard if we are going up. Is he available, and if he is, let’s bring him in. For £30million that would be a great buy and I can see it.”, Whelan told Football Insider.
What Do Leeds United Require This Summer?
Leeds United have been by far the best team in the Championship this season. However, there have been certain criticism regarding their offensive department. While their tally of 56 goals is not exactly bad, it can be argued that the Whites would need better productivity if they are to succeed in the top-flight.
Patrick Bamford, in particular, is not exactly a goal-scoring forward. The ex-Chelsea starlet is an excellent team player, often creating chances and opening up spaces for his teammates. But, Leeds United need a more direct and lethal forward in the Premier League as they are essentially going to get very few opportunities of scoring goals in the top tier.
Hence, the Whites must sign a new centre forward in the summer. They preferably need someone who can provide the physical presence in the final third that should combine well with Bamford’s technical prowess, thus adding a new dimension to the Leeds United frontline.
Is Noel Whelan Right About Odsonne Edouard?
Edouard could be a fantastic signing for Leeds United for multiple reasons. The Celtic superstar is regarded as a complete forward, who can be an asset for any team in the world. His attacking work-rate, in particular, is remarkable as he can dribble his way around the final third, sometimes drifting out wide and providing channels for his teammates to run into.
Also, the Frenchman, standing at 1.87m, is an intimidating figure in the final third. It helps him significantly in terms of aerial duels, making him a threat from set-pieces. But more importantly, Edouard is a lethal goalscorer, having netted 21 goals in 27 games in the Scottish Premiership this campaign.
Edouard will not only provide variety in the Leeds United attack, but he can also turn out to be an upgrade over Bamford, whose credibility in the Premier League remains unexplored. Whelan, therefore, is entirely right in his suggestion that Bielsa signs this highly talented Celtic forward this summer.
