Despite undergoing a busy summer, Leeds United might explore the transfer market once more during the winter window and according to The Sun, are interested in Manchester United custodian Dean Henderson who is willing to have a starting status ahead of next year’s European Championships.
Why Leeds United Must Make The Move For Henderson
Although the Whites were impressive against Arsenal on Sunday evening, yet they failed to snatch a win at Elland Road despite finding their opponents down to ten men for the majority of the second half. They hit the woodwork thrice, got denied by Bernd Leno all throughout and, at the same time, was spot on in goal when 20-year-old Illan Meslier denied Bukayo Saka one-on-one during the closing minutes of the match. Marcelo Bielsa’s gamble of favouring the youngster over veteran Kiko Casilla is paying off, however, they must bring in a renowned name in January considering their potential battle of survival in the decisive months.
Casilla seems not to be in the manager’s plan anymore whereas Meslier, though enjoying a dream run so far, might get exposed at some stage amid fixture congestion. He needs to be protected for years to come and Henderson, therefore, would be a smart pick with all his experience of the highest order.
Why The Keeper Needs To Go Out On Loan
The England international enjoyed a stupendous loan stint last season with Sheffield United but has found himself behind David De Gea in the pecking order upon his return to Old Trafford. The 23-year-old shot-stopper is yet to make his Premier League debut for his boyhood side and has only earned three appearances for the side (two in the EFL Cup and the other one against Istanbul Basaksehir in Europe that ended in a humiliating 2-1 defeat).
With both Jordan Pickford and Nick Pope struggling between the sticks, Henderson must be desperate to impress Gareth Southgate and secure a place in the Three Lions’ Euro 2020 squad. Being the understudy to De Gea won’t help him much in fulfilling his goal and should rather join the Whites if playing minutes are to be assured for the keeper.
Although the young keeper holds a bright future with the Red Devils, a player of De Ga’s profile can’t be dropped unless there is a drastic decline in form. The Spaniard has not been his absolute best in recent years but is still a massive influence with his experience and expertise from the last line of defence, thus justifying the need for Henderson to seek a move elsewhere.
