According to Daily Mail, Leeds United are keeping close tabs on Luke Mbete. The Manchester City academy prospect has been tipped for a potential move away from Etihad Stadium in search of first-team football. As a result, the Whites have been put on red alert, although Marcelo Bielsa’s men could face stiff competition from Serie A champions Juventus in the pursuit of Mbete.
Who is Luke Mbete?
Luke Mbete is widely considered as one of the most talented players to come out of the Manchester City academy in recent years. A centre-back by trade, the 17-year-old is highly rated even by Pep Guardiola, who has allowed the youngster to train with the first-team, at times.
Although Mbete is yet to make a senior appearance for Manchester City, he recently received a maiden call-up to the senior side. In fact, the defender was on the bench in the win over Chelsea, and his status is only likely to elevate as we head towards the second half of the campaign.
As far as his style of play is concerned, the Englishman is primarily known for his positional sense and maturity on the bench. He usually likes to operate as the left-sided centre-back, as it makes it easier for him to distribute possession with his stronger left foot. Mbete is indeed quite composed with the ball at his feet, while also boasting an imposing physique that makes him a tall and commanding presence in the backline.
Mbete has been the standout performer for Manchester City’s Elite Development Squad during the first half of the campaign, and it is only a matter of time before the defender earns his debut in the Premier League.
Is He A Good Investment For Leeds United?
Leeds United do have decent depth in the defensive department, following the summer arrivals of Robin Koch and Diego Llorente. However, both these individuals, along with club captain Liam Cooper have struggled with injuries during the course of this campaign. It has forced Bielsa to deploy Luke Ayling at centre-back alongside the inexperienced Pascal Struijk.
Although the acquisition of a new experienced centre-back could be unnecessary, Leeds United could certainly welcome the arrival of someone like Mbete. The Man City teenager has showcased a lot of quality with the club’s reserve side, and his style of play could ideally suit Bielsa’s tactical philosophy.
Indeed, Mbete’s ability to read the game, combined with his passing and composure could make him an asset for Leeds United. And with the defender facing an uncertain future at Etihad, the Whites should definitely make a move to secure his services in the near future.
