Dan James is a name that will frustrate Leeds United fans. Rewind two years ago, and we caught a glimpse of the Welsh speedster in our shirt – with a transfer just inches from completion. Fast forward to now, and he is a fringe player at Manchester United. It could all have been so different.
Leeds tried to sign James, 23, from Swansea City in January 2019 during Marcelo Bielsa’s first season at the club. A fee was agreed, personal terms met, medical passed. Wales international James had even picked a squad number – with the Amazon Prime documentary Leeds United: Take Me Home showing footage of James posing with the number 21 shirt.
But Swansea pulled out of a move, and he joined Manchester United in the summer. He has since played 52 times for United, having a hand in 12 goals. Starting in excellent fashion, he has since dropped off and could now be allowed to leave on loan. The Telegraph claim Leeds could make a move for the Manchester United winger in January – with a deal likely to be a loan.
The Whites have numerous options on the flanks. Jack Harrison and Raphinha are first choice, while Helder Costa, Ian Poveda, Pablo Hernandez, Stuart Dallas, Gjanni Alioski and even more provide cover. In the Under-23 side, Leeds also have some exciting talent – such as Stuart McKinstry, Liam McCarron and Bobby Kamwa.
So, Leeds are packed out wide, but perhaps they lack the raw speed of James. Raphinha and Harrison are quick, but they are not as quick as the £45k-a-week winger (Spotrac). Though the competition would be fierce and there is a question mark over whether he would start, he would certainly add an extra dimension to the Leeds side from the flanks.
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Leeds fans agree. While the majority believe that Leeds do not need another winger and should focus on other areas of the squad, a handful think he could be a decent signing – with one fan even suggesting Poveda is sent out on loan.