According to the latest reports from Reading Chronicle’s journalist Courtney Friday, Leeds United have joined the race to sign Liverpool’s Ovie Ejaria on loan. The report does add that Reading are favourites to get him on loan once again after he impressed for them in the second half of the campaign.
The midfielder made 16 appearances in the Championship and contributed with one goal and two assists. More than his goals contribution, it was the way he dictated play in midfield that must have caught Leeds United’s eye. The Whites are going to be favourites to move to the Premier League next season, but they should look to add more depth and reinforcements to the squad.
Leeds United are really interested in signing Ovie Ejaria.
The entrance of #lufc has really complicated matters for #ReadingFC, who thought that a deal was a matter of formality.
It is no longer so.
— The 4th Official (@Official_T4O) June 17, 2019
Does Leeds United need a midfielder?
Marcelo Bielsa had to make do with a razor-thin squad which was further depleted due to injuries. Mateusz Klich went on to start every game in midfield in the Championship. Midfield is one area where we often see managers rotate players, but Biela didn’t have the luxury to do that as he didn’t have any plausible options.
Adam Forshaw played as a backup, and he also acted as the second choice to Kalvin Phillips in defensive midfield. It’s because of this, academy graduate Jamie Shackleton got some first-team chances and impressed. Mateusz Bogusz is another youngster to look out for next season in the midfield position. Nevertheless, the Whites should look to add a quality and proven midfielder in their arsenal.
What can Ejaria bring at Elland Road?
The Liverpool midfielder looks calm and composed under possession, and he can affect play in the final third. His movement and close quarter control are one of his standout assets. He uses his body well to protect the ball, and it is often hard for the opposition to dispossess him.
He can play in a box to box role as well as an attacking midfielder so that would be a massive plus for Bielsa as the team lacks an outright no. 10 after the departure of Samuel Saiz.
Weakness’ of Ejaria
The Englishman needs to bring consistency to his game to thrive at the top level. On his day, he can rule the roost in midfield, but there would be days where he might look disinterested. His mentality is also under a scanner as he left his Rangers loan spell midway through the season.
Nevertheless, he would be a decent addition to Bielwa’s squad given his talent, and the Whites should step up their pursuit to beat Reading to get him on a season-long loan.
