With just three points in six matches, Leeds United have endured a difficult start to the new season. One of the biggest problems for Marcelo Bielsa’s team has been the lack of quality in midfield, which has directly contributed to the scoring struggles. As such, it won’t be surprising to see the Yorkshire giants being active in the January transfer window in an attempt to address some of the main problems in the squad.
One player Leeds United should target is Axel Witsel, and here, at The 4th Official, we will talk about why the Borussia Dortmund midfielder could be a potential fix to Bielsa’s issues during the second half of the campaign.
What Does He Bring To The Table?
Axel Witsel has been a part of the Dortmund side since 2018 when he joined the club from the Chinese Super League for a fee of €20 million. Considering his form during the first two years at the club, it proved to be a bargain for the Bundesliga giants.
His form has dissipated since the second half of the 2019/20 campaign, but the Belgian international is regarded as one of the best in the business when it comes to ball rotation and orchestrating possession in the middle of the park.
Formerly of Zenit St. Petersburg, Witsel is primarily a holding midfielder, who can offer composure, experience and leadership in midfield. He is excellent at reading the game and tends to provide a good cover for the backline.
The Belgian is good with the ball at his feet, too, boasting enough physical attributes to hold off pressure from the opposition while his understanding of the game helps the veteran midfielder dominate the opposition side.
Here’s Why Leeds United Should Sign Axel Witsel
Leeds United’s lack of midfield depth has been a real issue for Bielsa this season. Kalvin Phillips has lacked optimal support, especially in the approach play.
It appears the departure of Pablo Hernandez has left Leeds without a proper creative force in the middle. And while Witsel is not a creative midfielder by any means, he could be an ideal supporting player for Phillips in the second line of press.
The Belgian understands the game well and can control the proceedings. It would allow Phillips to focus more on his forward passes, especially in finding players in the wider channels.
With over 100 games for Belgium and Dortmund, Witsel also brings a wealth of experience at the highest level of football. It could be useful for a Leeds United team that lacks any experienced figureheads in the squad. And with the midfielder’s contract expiring next summer, he could be a smart coup in January.
