Leeds United should consider Ethan Ampadu’s Wales partner as bargain £8.6m fee emerges

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With Djed Spence already leaving Leeds United and Luke Ayling likely to follow him in the coming days, Archie Gray is going to become more important at right-back – leaving a hole in our midfield.

It was a position of solidity when the summer window slammed shut. Leeds had signed Ethan Ampadu, Ilia Gruev and Glen Kamara for a combined fee of less than £20m. Excellent business from the Whites.

Combine that with the breakthrough talent of Archie Gray, Leeds looked solid. But with Gray moving to right-back and both Ayling and Spence on their way out of Leeds – Gray is set to remain at right-back.

Even despite his impressive outing in midfield with Gruev in the recent FA Cup win over Peterborough United. Leeds are being linked with signing a right-back, Burnley’s Connor Roberts emerging as a target.

But perhaps, with Gray shining on the right, it might be better to add a midfielder – and allow Gray to blossom on the right. Reports claim that the perfect signing could be available for a bargain £8.6m.

Leeds should consider Birmingham sensation Jordan James

Indeed, Ampadu’s Wales midfield partner Jordan James is shining for Birmingham. At 19, he’s already played 85 times for the Blues at senior level – and this season, has scored five Championship goals.

Of course, Birmingham are renowned for producing central midfielders – the Bellingham brothers are proof of that. Rudy Galetti claims on Tribal Football that Serie A giants Atalanta are keen, bidding £4m.

But that is far below Birmingham’s £8.6m asking price, for a player that loves playing with Ampadu – saying he could become a future Wales captain. The midfield duo will be key if Wales get to Euro 2024.

So, James is available and with Leeds already boasting three Wales teammates and linked with more in the likes of Roberts – Elland Road could be the perfect move for him. We could need a midfield addition.

And at £8.6m, signing a teenage talent as promising as James should not be passed up. Leeds should really consider a move for the Birmingham sensation, before his value begins to sky rocket higher.