Leeds United have officially announced the signing of Cody Drameh. The young right-back joins from Premier League rivals Fulham, signing a four-year contract that expires in 2024. Drameh’s transfer fee remains undisclosed, but the 18-year-old has become the fifth player to join Leeds United this summer, after Joe Gelhardt while the likes of Jack Harrison, Illan Meslier and Helder Costa have all made their moves permanent.
Who is Cody Drameh?
Drameh is a product of the Fulham youth academy and is regarded as one of the most gifted players to come out that youth setup in recent years. Although he is yet to make an impact in professional football, the youngster has been a regular fixture for the Fulham reserves, having made 17 appearances in Premier League 2 last season.
Drameh has impressed the onlookers with his forays down the flank. He is already likened to Liverpool sensation Trent Alexander-Arnold but has much more promise when it comes to the physical side of the game. Additionally, the right-back is also known for his technical qualities and an excellent passing range, which can be useful for any team that implements a possession-based style of football.
How Drameh can be useful for Leeds United
As mentioned earlier, Drameh’s ability to march forward and provide offensive support is a gifted trait for any fullback. It should undoubtedly aid Leeds United, who do need much more firepower in the attacking department, in the Premier League next season.
✍️ #LUFC are pleased to announce the signing of full-back Cody Drameh from fellow Premier League side Fulham
— Leeds United (@LUFC) August 13, 2020
However, what makes the youngster such a smart signing for the Whites is his technical prowess. Indeed, Drameh’s ability to rotate possession at a quick-rate, combined with his pace and work ethic make him a tailor-made fit for Marcelo Bielsa’s tactical philosophy that revolves around retaining the ball and creating chances.
It is needless to point out that Leeds United may not enjoy as much possession in the Premier League. But, the fact that Drameh is capable of integrating himself into Bielsa’s tactics is a major plus for the newly-promoted outfit.
Can Drameh get his breakthrough next season?
It is hard to imagine Drameh making an immediate impact at Elland Road next season, especially as Leeds United prepare themselves for the challenge of playing in the Premier League. Besides, the Whites already have a reliable right-back in the shape of Luke Ayling.
But one thing is for sure, the addition of Drameh could add some much-needed depth in the right-back unit as Ayling and Stuart Dallas have been the only options available for Bielsa prior to this signing.
It will be interesting to see how the ex-Fulham academy star competes with Leeds’ own academy product, Bryce Hosannah next season and who comes out on top.
