According to Leeds Live, Leeds United are set to monitor Manchester United’s Daniel James. The Championship outfit are said to keep a close eye on the winger’s situation after it was revealed by The Sun that the Red Devils could be willing to let him leave the club on loan this summer.
Manchester United, are persistent in keeping hold of James for the long-term. They are even expected to offer him a sizable raise in salary before the start of the new campaign.
Daniel James’ story so far
James joined Manchester United in a €17 million move from Swansea. The young winger has also managed to make himself a key component in the club’s attacking department, although he was largely helped by the departure of Alexis Sanchez. In any case, he has featured in 27 league matches so far, having been involved in nine goals.
James has primarily impressed the onlookers with his pace and trickery on the flanks. It has given Ole Gunnar Solskjaer an effective option to use on the counter, which is combined with the player’s ability to get past defenders.
His numbers haven’t exactly been over the top. However, the Welshman has provided consistent support in the attack, averaging over one key pass, successful dribble and shot on goal per game. His tally of six Premier League assists is also higher than any other Manchester United player this season.
Where does James fit in at Leeds United?
The potential arrival of James to Elland Road could be massive for Leeds United. The Whites have already impressed with their firepower in the wide attacking department, especially with players like Jack Harrison and Helder Costa. However, James is someone who can provide more quality on the flanks.
As mentioned earlier, the Welshman is capable of performing at the highest level of football, having enjoyed a steady development at Manchester United. And the fact that he has performed in the Premier League this season makes him a more reliable attacking option than the likes of Harrison and Costa, both of who yet to prove themselves in top-flight English football.
Should Leeds go all out for James?
Leeds United must continue to keep an eye on the progress of James this summer. Although it remains to be seen whether or not Manchester United manage to sign Jadon Sancho, the arrival of a potential star should be enough to minimise the player’s game-time.
In that case, the Championship league leaders should be able to establish themselves as an ideal suitor as James looks to make a bigger impact in the Premier League next season. Also, who can forget how vigorously Bielsa tried to sign him last season? The Argentine never makes any decision regarding transfers lightly, so the underlying numbers when he was still at Swansea must have been encouraging. This is one transfer Leeds should look to do if they get promoted.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
