Leeds can boast a talented squad, but there is a slight imbalance.
Daniel Farke only has two left-footed players he uses regularly in Pascal Struijk and Gabriel Gudmundsson, while there are only five left-footed outfield players in the squad overall when you take Jack Harrison, Joel Piroe and Ilia Gruev into account.
Leeds are now working to bring another left-footed star to Elland Road in El Chadaille Bitshiabu, who Marco Rose has previously lauded when it comes to his ability on that foot.
Leeds United target El Chadaille Bitshiabu has been called one of the best left-footers in Europe
It was TEAMtalk who claimed that Leeds are holding talks over a potential swoop for the Frenchman, and Struijk might be a bit worried about a deal materialising – after what has been said about the defender’s quality in possession.
As quoted by the official RB Leipzig website, Rose – who was linked to Leeds recently as Farke struggled – said: “In my opinion, Chad has probably the best left foot of any centre-back in Europe.”
El Chadaille Bitshiabu from RB Leipzig is the wrong signing for Leeds in the transfer window – Agree or disagree? 💰
Leeds remain short on options in attack
Having a quality player like this on the left of a back three could help Leeds break down opponents more often, with the 20-year-old considered to be among the best around when it comes to finding passes in between the lines.
For whatever reason, Bitshiabu has only made one start in the Bundesliga so far this season, and 14 in total following his €20m (£17m) move from PSG in July 2023.
Leeds could now benefit from this situation – especially due to the connection with Red Bull – and provide Farke with a precocious talent in his backline.
El Chadaille Bitshiabu interest offers hint towards Daniel Farke’s long-term plan at Leeds United
With Leeds now looking at a new centre-back in Bitshiabu, it strongly suggests Farke plans to keep using the new 3-5-2 formation for good at Elland Road.
Sebastiaan Bornauw – wanted by FC Koln – is the only backup option Leeds have in central defence now Jaka Bijol has been made a regular starter thanks to the formation change.
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.
It means Leeds would ideally need another central defender to provide depth if Farke planned to keep using this formation, and the interest in Bitshiabu suggests the German will keep his 3-5-2 shape around.
Leeds also like Tylel Tati – a precocious talent at Nantes – and are keeping a close eye on Wolfsberger’s Nigerian talent Chibuike Nwaiwu, both of whom play as central defenders.
Therefore, all the signs point towards Leeds now being a 3-5-2 team for good, following a run of four Premier League games unbeaten when using this system.
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