The search for a midfielder will continue this summer. The long-winded pursuit of Rodrigo De Paul fell through when Udinese would not drop their asking price – in the region of £40million – while Michael Cuisance failed a medical ahead of a proposed move from Bayern Munich. Since his move to Marseille, the young Frenchman has considerably struggled.
Leeds, meanwhile, have benefited from Rodrigo’s versatility. Although signed as a replacement for Patrick Bamford, the latter’s form has seen Rodrigo play in midfield – and the Spain international’s recent absence from the team highlighted his importance. Stuart Dallas has also played in that role of late, while Tyler Roberts has done superbly well recently.
But none of those three are natural midfielders. Mateusz Klich’s form has been poor and Jamie Shackleton – who himself has only just come back from injury – is not yet trusted to start in the Premier League. There is no doubt that when the summer comes along, Leeds need to sign a midfielder and Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher would be absolutely perfect for Leeds.
The Express claim Crystal Palace are considering the £9million-rated midfielder as he continues to shine on loan at relegation-threatened West Brom. He has been one of the bright sparks under Sam Allardyce, having a hand in four goals from midfield in his 25 outings. But with the Baggies expected to be relegated, his future will be up in the air again this summer.
What has been clear from his performances is that while Gallagher can play as an 8 or a 10 – a Klich or a Rodrigo – he also has defensive qualities. He has the ability to get forward, vision to split the defence, but also the dogged work rate and determination to defend. He is the perfect Marcelo Bielsa-type midfielder – not least, he is also cheap, young and English.
Whether he starts for Leeds does not matter at £9million. He would be excellent cover in numerous midfield positions – but with a view to breaking into the senior side on a more permanent basis. He is unlikely to have a future at Chelsea – so, surely at that price, Leeds need to consider a move? At LeedsUnited.News, we think it is a no-brainer to consider him.
