If a report from The Athletic is believed to be true, Leeds United are back in the hunt for Rangers sensation Ryan Kent. The Englishman enjoyed an exquisite spell so far in Scotland under Steven Gerrard and his flair down the flank proved pivotal in the Gers’ long-awaited title triumph.
The Whites have been keeping close tabs on the ex-Liverpool prodigy for quite some time. Although the rumours cooled down of late, the latest story has now refuelled speculations ahead of the upcoming campaign. Kent has always been rated highly by the Merseysiders despite failing to stake a claim in Jurgen Klopp’s plan. He spent his minutes out on loan in Germany as well as the lower leagues of the English pyramid and was eventually handed an escape route by Gerrard following his appointment as the Ibrox chief.
The 24-year-old was brilliant from the left while on loan back in 2018-19. Gerrard was desperate to make the move permanent and his Liverpool connection helped him win the race over Marcelo Bielsa who scouted him personally during the Reds’ pre-season campaign.
Why Leeds Should Tie Down Ryan Kent
Leeds, meanwhile, returned to Premier League a year later and defied the odds by finishing 9th in the standings. They have been spot on with their transfer business and the gaffer is currently working on further reinforcements. Jack Harrison has been roped in on permanent terms, but the search for a wide attacker, who would compliment and challenge Harrison, is still on. The exit of Ezgjan Alioski leaves a void considering his ability to slot in as an understudy to the ex-Manchester City prospect.
Kent has fired in 13 times and laid on 15 more last season in 53 appearances across competitions (stats via Transfermarket). He was majestic in the Bears’ impressive Europa League run as he proved his worth against admirable European opponents in Benfica, Standard Liege and Royal Antwerp. Apart from scoring goals or creating chances, his pace, power and prowess have troubled the opponents time and again.
Bielsa prefers inverted wingers who would cut inside and create space in the attacking third and the profile of Kent ticks many boxes. He loves to take on the defenders one-on-one and the strong dribbling trait makes him unplayable every now and then. A bit of consistency would see him running riot in the Premier League if a deal is struck in the coming days.
