Ian Poveda was a surprise exit at Leeds United on deadline day as he completed a loan switch to Sheffield Wednesday, with a permanent move expected. But he needs replacing on the bench.
While the 23-year-old only managed 10 appearances and just one start during the first half of the season for Leeds, he has been in the matchday squad for 22 of our 30 Championship games this term.
That is a hole that requires filling. But with the January window shut, if Leeds did consider bringing in a replacement for Poveda – it would have to be a free agent. Here are three potential free agent signings:
Three free agents Leeds could target to replace Ian Poveda
Anwar El Ghazi
Leeds fans will remember Netherlands international El Ghazi, the man who not only scored the winner against the Whites in february 2021 to win 1-0 – but the man who was sent off against us back in 2019.
The game in which Marcelo Bielsa ordered his Leeds players allow Villa to score, after Mateusz Klich controversially netted for us when Tyler Roberts looked like he was about to kick the ball out of play.
El Ghazi was harshly sent off, with Patrick Bamford going down theatrically. Now a free agent, the 28-year-old winger is without a club after having his contract terminated by Mainz earlier this season.
A player with 11 goals and assists in 31 career outings in the Championship, and 15 goals in 73 games in the Premier League. A player with plenty of talent, still a good age, and proven at this level. Smart.
Carlos Vela
Bit of a different one, but Mexico legend Vela – once of Arsenal and West Brom – is without a club after leaving LAFC. He spent six years with the MLS side, having a hand in 147 goals in 188 games. Incredible.
A stunning record. Another 116 involvements in 248 games with Sociedad before his move to America. But the 72-time Mexico star is without a club now. At 34, he is getting on, but he has enormous quality.
Perhaps a short-term deal until the end of the season could benefit Leeds – especially as Vela would not only offer cover out wide – but as a 10, and up top. Wages might be an issue, with Vela, however.
Amin Younes
Younes has played for some huge clubs in Europe. 100 games with Ajax. Spells with Gladbach, Napoli, Frankfurt and recently, Al-Ettifaq. He has 38 goals and assists in those century of Ajax appearances.
Seven goals and assists in 21 with Napoli. A player that can do it at the highest level. One with eight caps for Germany. Injury has stunted his progress, but he is capable of magic – without a club since July.
Best as a 10, but also very effective out wide, Younes would be a solid replacement for Poveda in that the duo’s footballing characteristics are similar. A short-term deal until the summer would improve us.
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