As per the reports in Leeds Live, bookies have made Leeds United favourites to sign Sheffield Wednesday’s playmaker Adam Reach. Not too long ago, the midfielder scored a brilliant long ranger against the Whites, which held the high flying United to a 1-1 draw.
Bielsa had earlier indicated that the club might not look to do business in the January transfer window, but there are some gaping holes in the team at the moment. Samuel Saiz is likely (Yorkshire Evening Post) to move to La Liga outfit Getafe in January. After recent developments, the club should definitely consider their stance on having a quiet January transfer window.
25-year-old Reach is predominantly a left midfielder and can play as an outright winger as well. Currently, that position is being occupied by Ezgjan Alioski in United’s starting XI, and it would not be unfair to say that the Macedonian hasn’t justified his selection for quite some time now.
Alioski’s work rate might be good but he is in the team to provide the cutting edge in the final third and to deliver dangerous crosses. He has failed to do that regularly, and his place is currently under threat from 18-year-old Jack Clarke who has done well in his cameo appearances so far. However, with the role of attacking midfielder presently empty, it is likely that Clarke might get the nod ahead in that position.
Reach can be a decent addition as in an average Wednesday side, he has been one of their lone bright spots. The Owls are languishing on the 18th spot at the moment, but Reach’s individual performance has been inspiring. The Englishman has managed six goals and three assists in all competitions so far. On the other hand, Alioski has managed three goals and three assists, playing in a much better overall attacking team.
On current form, Reach would definitely be an upgrade over Alioski, and the Whites should look to pull this move off in January. They currently occupy the top spot but injuries have been a significant obstacle in their path so far this season and they cannot push their luck further. Bielsa hasn’t been afraid to give youngsters a chance into the team, but when the race for the promotion spot tightens, one would want players who have a decent amount of experience under their belt.
Someone like Reach is a good mix of youth and experience and he would definitely add some good value to the squad if the Whites manage to lure him. However, it’s not going to be that straightforward as the reports add that clubs like Burnley, Southampton, Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa are also interested in this Sheffield Wednesday talisman.
