Leeds United’s search for defensive additions has entered the final week of January with the Whites still in the market for a right-back and maybe a left-back – and Charlie Taylor could become a target.
That is according to journalist Graeme Bailey, with the 30-year-old a target back in the summer for the Whites. Leeds were linked with bringing him back, after he’d helped Burnley secure the Championship.
Leeds could still do with defensive additions, but the form of Junior Firpo and Sam Byram as back-up means Leeds are pretty solid on the left – if they stay fit. Leeds do need options on the right of defence.
However, signing a left-back could mean Byram would switch to being used as a right-back instead of a left-sided option. Taylor could be that man, if he returns after playing 104 times for the club beforehand.
Bailey told LeedsUnited.News that it if Taylor becomes available, Leeds could make a bid. He’s playing for Burnley at the moment – but the Leeds academy product sees his £32k-a-week deal expire in June.
The reporter also said that a move for Ben Johnson is off the table, as he is remaining at West Ham – and that a move for Liverpool’s Calvin Ramsay is unlikely. Connor Roberts is also a potential option, too.
“I’m surprised Leeds didn’t get one in before allowing [Luke] Ayling to go. Ben Johnson is off the table now, he’s not leaving West Ham – is my understanding. Calvin Ramsey is nowhere near good enough. I like Archie Gray, Shackleton too. Interesting one. I think Leeds are doing it right,” Bailey told us at LUN.
“If the right one is there – Connor Roberts is an interesting one, he’s a solid player. If Charlie Taylor was available, I think Leeds would look at him. It tells me, and from what I’ve heard, Leeds are not desperate to get one in terms of they don’t have to. If the right one is there, they’ll do it,” Bailey added this week.
Graeme Bailey: Leeds could make Charlie Taylor move if available
Taylor would be a stunning signing. A player that knows how to win the Championship, and knows Leeds as a club. A top, top option on the left side of the defence. But, he is playing regularly for the Clarets.
It would be a surprise if Burnley were willing to play ball in the final few days of the window, but he is out of contract in the summer and if Leeds made a cash offer – it could tempt Vincent Kimpany’s side to sell.
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