Leeds United will likely be in the market for a new no.10 before August 6’s opener against Cardiff City after the exit of Brenden Aaronson – and the club should be on red alert, with Tottenham’s Alfie Devine expected to go on loan.
Devine, 18, played 21 times for Tottenham’s U21 side last season – having a hand in eight goals from midfield. His form was good enough that Antonio Conte handed him only his second senior outings for Spurs, in the FA Cup.
A player with incredible talent, he was a regular alongside Darko Gyabi and Mateo Joseph at the Under-20 World Cup in Argentina this summer. He combined with Joe Gelhardt in Wigan’s U18 side during the 19-20 FA Youth Cup.
Aaronson’s exit means Leeds need a 10. Sam Greenwood is a good option, but it remains to be seen if Daniel Farke will throw all of his trust behind the ex-Arsenal man. He is realistically, the only player that is a natural fit in that role.
Leeds should be on red alert with Tottenham’s Devine set to go on loan
Even if Greenwood is first choice, Leeds need another. Farke, at Norwich, played a 4-2-3-1 system that saw Emi Buendia and Teemu Pukki combine. Leeds need a Buendia-like 10. Tenacious, aggressive, but full of magic, goals.
Devine certainly has that. Able to play slightly deeper as an 8, he has that aggression and determination to win the ball. Then in possession, he is able to create something out of nothing. Is he ready for Championship football?
He is young, but he is an experienced 18. The Athletic say Tottenham are ‘expected’ to send him on loan and if that is the case, then Leeds should be on red alert. He would be an excellent addition in the final third, as a new no.10.
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