It took the entirety of deadline day, but Leeds United have finally announced the signing of Burnley defender Connor Roberts until the end of the season – with fans made to wait for Roberts’ arrival.
Roberts, 28, has struggled for game time at Burnley and Leeds have swooped to finally bring in a new player this month. The Whites have needed a right-back – after losing duo Luke Ayling and Djed Spence.
A 54-time Wales star, Roberts brings with him a wealth of experience to Elland Road – having had a hand in 35 goals in 173 games in the second tier of English football. And, he forms numerous reunions.
Alongside his Wales teammates in Joe Rodon, Dan James and Ethan Ampadu – having played with Rodon and James at Swansea. He crossed paths with Joel Piroe over at Swansea, too. Now, at Leeds.
It took Leeds until after the deadline to announce a deal was over the line, after Ian Poveda completed a loan move to Sheffield Wednesday. Beforehand, we saw Rodon’s brother Sam was Tweeting him all day.
Leeds finally announce signing of Burnley star Connor Roberts
The arrival of Roberts sees Leeds now boast the Wales star, Archie Gray and Jamie Shackleton as options on the right of defence – with Gray and Shackleton naturally midfielders. It is a straight loan.
Leeds have failed to bring in a left-back despite the injury records of both Sam Byram and Junior Firpo, as well as the exit of Leo Hjelde. Charlie Cresswell staying reduced the need to sign a new centre-back.
But finally, Leeds have announced the signing of Roberts. We can call the Wales star a Leeds player at least for the next six months. Leeds, typically, doing it in true Leeds style on the final day of the window.
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