If reports are to be believed, then Championship side Leeds United are now in the perfect position to land highly-rated Manchester United defender Cameron Borthwick-Jackson. The young left back has been touted by many as the next big thing when he broke into Louis Van Gaal’s side two years ago and impressed, but his career hasn’t seen the rise as expected.
His last season with Wolverhampton Wanderers was quite underwhelming, to put it mildly, and he failed to impress Jose Mourinho whatsoever. And his omission from Manchester United’s pre-season tour to the United States of America was the final nail in the coffin. His teammate Demetri Mitchell was preferred over him.
And now with the overseas trip out of the way, Leeds could finally turn their long-term pursuit into a deal. With Charlie Taylor on his way to Premier League side Burnley, Leeds are yet to fill the void left on their left defensive flank and Thomas Christiansen thinks the 20-year-old could be a long-term replacement.
Following a disheartening season, which saw the Whites miss out on the playoff qualification spot by the skin of their teeth, owing to some poor displays late in the season, Leeds have taken all the necessary steps to make sure they don’t repeat the same mistakes. With a new owner and a new manager at the helm, changes have come right and fast at Elland Road.
Apart from making a deal permanent for their star players last season- Pontus Jansson and Hadi Sacko, Leeds have also brought in the likes of central midfielder Mateusz Klich and goalie Felix Wiedwald. And Jackson could well be their next arrival.
The Manchester-born player first got his big break into the Red Devils squad under the reign of Van Gaal where he managed 14 appearances in all competitions as he even managed an assist in Premier League. However, with Mourinho coming to the helm, United’s emerging youngsters were dealt a huge blow and Jackson was soon sent to play for Wolves on loan.
At Molineux, quite surprisingly, the player failed to flourish, managing only seven appearances. He headed back to Old Trafford to play for their Under-23 side before the season came to an end. Leeds, however, don’t see his sudden halt as his lack of quality, and still, want him in their side.
Of course, it would be a huge demotion for Jackson to move to a Championship club after coming through the ranks of Manchester United, but Leeds’ major planning indicates they are targeting for the top spot in the Championship next season. And if Michael Keane is any inspiration for Jackson, he should take this chance.
