Leeds United look as if they could be set to enter the January transfer window to improve both ends of the pitch in the coming days and weeks, but one target has been urged to join Sunderland.
Leeds are being linked with a number of different players in the January window. There are arguments to be made for replacing Illan Meslier, bringing in a centre-back, a left-back, a striker and a new playmaker.
Up top, Leeds have four options. Joe Gelhardt is keen on leaving Leeds, while Patrick Bamford’s future is a doubt with Wrexham and Genoa keen. If both leave, then Daniel Farke may need to sign another striker.
One option being linked with a January move to Elland Road has been recalled by a Premier League club. Indeed, Aston Villa have brought Louie Barry back from Stockport County and Leeds are keen on him.
Louie Barry urged to join Sunderland over Leeds this month
Having netted 16 goals in 24 games for Stockport, Villa have brought him back and are intending to loan him out again. Leeds, Sunderland, Burnley and Boro want Barry, while Sheffield United are also keen.
Unai Emery commented on Barry’s future over the weekend and now, former Leeds star Carlton Palmer has picked which club he would join if he was in the “outstanding” Barry’s shoes – choosing Sunderland.
“It will be interesting for Leeds to see what they do with Patrick Bamford. Piroe has just started scoring again, they need another striker but Barry won’t want to sit on the bench,” Palmer told FLW.
“If I was Louie Barry, I would be looking at where I can get first-team football, where I fancy my chances to play regularly at a club that gives young players a chance, that’s Sunderland at this moment in time.”
Leeds United need to take action if they are to get promoted
If Leeds are to secure a place in the Premier League, then they need to make some additions. They need better between the sticks than Illan Meslier, after Saturday’s showing and the stats prove just that.
Meslier is the Championship’s 18th-best shot-stopper in terms of save percentage, at just 66.1%. That is an area that requires improvement, while a new striker such as Barry would give Leeds another weapon.
As Palmer says, Joel Piroe is scoring goals and remains first choice. But Leeds need better in reserve and perhaps, more than just Mateo Joseph given the Spaniard has netted only two goals for Leeds this term.
Bringing in Barry gives Leeds a completely new dimension in attack. If Leeds and Daniel Farke are serious about promotion, then signing a new goalkeeper and a forward like Barry gives them the best chance.
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