In a recent interview with Give Me Sport, journalist Pete O’Rourke backed Leeds United to land Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie. O’Rourke said,
“I’m sure Leeds will try and use that American connection to try and help any deal to get over the line if they do pursue a move for McKennie.”
McKennie’s Campaign Of Mixed Emotions In Italian Football
McKennie is personally having a decent campaign at the Allianz Stadium as he has managed to establish himself as an important member of Massimiliano Allegri’s first XI. The 24-year-old has made 14 appearances for the Italian club this season, netting two goals and grabbing one assist in all competitions.
The United States International has struggled to perform at a high level based on his average of 0.5 tackles, 0.5 interceptions, 0.9 clearances, 0.8 shots, 0.7 key passes and 0.4 dribbles per 90 minutes in Serie A football. However, he has been tidy with his ball distribution after making 81.9% of his attempted passes in the Italian first division (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Turin club is set to expire in the summer of 2025. Hence, Leeds would have to make a big offer if they want to secure his services next year.
What Will McKennie Add To Leeds United Boss Jesse Marsch’s Team?
McKennie can do a little bit of everything at the centre of the park. He can offer decent protection for his teammates at the back when playing with confidence on the field. McKennie is primarily a box-to-box midfielder but can also fill in as a right-sided wide player if needed.
The United States international can strike the ball well from long range and has got the eye to play a decisive pass on the attacking end of the pitch. He is an accurate passer of the ball as well but needs to figure out a way to be more consistent with his contributions in midfield.
We can expect McKennie to add more quality to Leeds United head coach Jesse Marsch‘s midfield department and increase competition for places within his match-day squad. Thus, it makes sense for the Whites to listen to O’Rourke’s advice by sealing a move for the United States midfield ace either in January or at the end of this season.
At 24, McKennie has got his best years ahead of him which means that the West Yorkshire outfit can expect to get the best out of him if they can find a way to bring him to Elland Road in the not-too-distant future.
