According to Birmingham Mail, as cited by Burnley Express, Wolverhampton Wanderers are ready to offer Leeds United the opportunity to sign John Ruddy prior to their potential promotion to the Premier League next season. It seems the Wolves are keen to offload the ageing goalkeeper, with Leeds emerging as a possible destination.
John Ruddy: One of the most experienced goalkeepers in PL
Ruddy began his career way back in 2004 when he was promoted to the first-team of Cambridge United. He then moved to Everton the following year and ended up making just one senior appearance during his five-year spell at the Goodison Park.
Ruddy’s time at Everton saw him endure several loan spells at clubs like Bristol City, Crewe Alexandria and Stockport among many others before eventually joining Norwich City in 2010. He became a first-choice keeper for the Canaries, making over 240 competitive appearances for the club.
And in 2017, he finally left Norwich to join Wolverhampton Wanderers. At the Molineux, Ruddy has been considered as a primary alternative for Rui Patricio, even though his performances in between the sticks were critical behind the club’s promotion to the top flight during the 2017/18 Championship campaign.
Overall, the 33-year-old has made 163 appearances in the Championship while featuring in 118 Premier League matches. He has also played in Scotland – making him one of the most experienced players in England at the moment.
Do Leeds United really need Ruddy?
Ruddy could be a smart acquisition for Leeds United next season. His experience and knowledge of the English top-flight could come in handy for an otherwise inexperienced squadron, led by Marcelo Bielsa.
It is also fair to point out that the Whites lack the services of a reliable number one. Kiko Casilla has failed to convince the onlookers, making numerous unforced defensive errors while instilling very little confidence into the team. He is, therefore, not a viable first-team option in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Illan Meslier, despite being regarded as one of the best young goalkeepers in Europe, does not have the experience of performing at the highest level of football. And that’s where Ruddy comes into the fray.
The Wolves star can be considered a potential alternative to both Casilla and Meslier, the latter of whose long-term future at the club remains in doubt as the youngster may return to Lorient following the end of his loan spell. And if Leeds do qualify for the Premier League, this necessitates going after Ruddy, making him an ideal signing for the club.
