Leeds United are expected to be busy in the winter window, and the latest player on the club’s radar is one who has left Joe Cole impressed on many occasions over the last two years.
The Yorkshire side failed to bring another attacker to the club in the summer, missing out on Harry Wilson and Facundo Buonanotte. That was when Leeds had Dan James fit, with the Wales winger now sidelined.
Leeds are down to their bare bones in attack; it has Daniel Farke switching to a 3-5-2 system. Removing the need for wingers has made it a lot easier for the German gaffer to pick his side in recent matches.
Which player would you be happy for Leeds to sell in January to fund their transfer business? Let us know in the comments… 🤔💰
The likes of Joel Piroe and Willy Gnonto are struggling to force their way into Farke's plans.
When January comes around, Leeds need an attacking midfielder but they may also bring in a player that can replace James. Step forward, Chelsea’s exciting academy product Tyrique George, Leeds’ latest target.
What Joe Cole has said about new Leeds target Tyrique George
George was the man who scuppered Wilson’s failed Leeds move in the summer. Fulham thought they had agreed £22m deal for George, but it fell through at the last minute and saw Leeds fail to bring Wilson in.
Now, ironically, Leeds want George. It is unclear if Chelsea are requesting a similar fee to the one Fulham were willing to pay, but it is likely to be similar. Reports say Everton and Leeds both want to sign George.
Fulham, too. George has only had a hand in 12 goals in 36 Chelsea appearances since his breakthrough last term. That breakthrough came in the Conference League, where Joe Cole heaped praise on George.
“He’s a real bright spark. George has taken his opportunity and affected games as a dribbler, he’s direct, he’s every full-back’s nightmare. He makes things happen,” Cole added, during his analysis on TNT.
What is a fair price for Chelsea’s Tyrique George? 💸
Fulham almost got him for £22m
George would be a stunning signing, but £22m is expensive
There is no doubt that George would be like adding another Okafor to his Leeds side. A player who can run at defences, score goals, get to the byline or cut inside a defender and make magic happen.
But George would be expensive. His move to Fulham was north of the £20m border and Robbie Evans has already made it clear that Leeds are walking a thin line with PSR. So, Leeds have a decision to make.
With Farke likely to want a couple of additions, do they go after a permanent deal for George and spend what they probably have in total to use next month? Or do they go after a couple of bargain deals.
Ultimately, George is a talent, but he lacks the experience and it is a big sum for Leeds to entrust on one player to get them out of the trouble they are in. Leeds might be better spending it on an elder head.
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