Leeds United have endured an underwhelming campaign in the Premier League thus far with Marcelo Bielsa’s side sitting in 16th place and in need of some life before the season turns even more torrid.
With the January transfer window set to open in under two weeks, the West Yorkshire side will be eyeing additions with Reading midfielder John Swift once again being linked with a move up to the top-flight.
What’s the story?
The 26-year-old midfielder has been in excellent form in what has been a difficult season for the Royals, who sit 21st in the Championship table after a six-point deduction.
Swift has contributed eight goals and nine assists in 21 league appearances for the Berkshire side and is attracting interest from Premier League outfit Leeds.
Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa has publicly revealed his admiration for the Englishman back in February 2020, labelling him “a great player” and that “I [he] value a lot.”
However, according to the Reading Chronicle, Swift will opt to remain with the Royals for the remainder of the season as they look to avoid relegation to League One.
A potential move up the English football ladder may be looked at in the summer, but it is believed that Swift has no intention of leaving the club he has been at for over five years mid-campaign.
Leeds should swoop for Swift
With Marcelo Bielsa’s side seriously struggling for form and with a plethora of injuries, the West Yorkshire club will surely be looking to invest in the upcoming transfer window.
Playmaker Raphinha has scored eight of Leeds’ 18 Premier League goals so far and Bielsa could do with extra reinforcements should the Brazilian be unavailable, or worse, sold.
That said, he’d be a pretty huge upgrade on Mateusz Klich. The Pole has found life difficult this term with just a solitary goal and assist in the Premier League.
Swift, by comparison, has already racked up double figures in the second tier this term and with 31 goals for Reading to his name, would prove to be an incredibly shrewd addition by Victor Orta and co.
An eye-catching review from One Leeds Fan YouTuber Conor McGilligan tells you all you need to know about the Royals man, and why he could be such an exciting signing for supporters.
“[He’s] an absolute grafter, someone who’s worked his way up the football pyramid, someone who, for me, has the technical ability that would sort of replicate a Pablo Hernandez, a Samuel Saiz in tight pockets,” McGilligan said.
Swift would prove a clever signing and his signature would certainly please Leeds fans as it would add depth to a squad that is significantly suffering.
However, the midfielder is out of contract in the summer and therefore the Whites may have to be patient to secure the services of the 26-year-old who is clearly prioritising loyalty over a big move to the Premier League.
from FootballFanCast.com https://ift.tt/3shNErS
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