Last January, Leeds United and Daniel Farke made the mistake of failing to bring in more than just one player to aid a promotion push back to the Premier League.
Connor Roberts arrived on loan to provide cover and Championship-winning experience on the right of the defence. But Leeds needed a centre-back, a midfielder and possibly an attacking player last January.
Failure to bring in those players played a part in Leeds missing out on the automatic promotion spots and eventually succumbing to defeat against Southampton in the Championship play-off final at Wembley.
This season’s January window is six weeks away and planning will have already started. Graham Smyth expects Leeds will be looking to sign a new no.10, in order to provide competition for Brenden Aaronson.
What Leeds fans are saying amid reports James McAtee is a target
Leeds tried to get a no.10 in the summer but failed. Among numerous targets, Angus Kinnear said the club had considered Man City’s James McAtee, but Pep Guardiola chose to keep McAtee at The Etihad.
Leeds’ interest in him has not faded, with Leeds supposedly considering a move for McAtee ahead of January. Leeds are one of 12 clubs keen, but supporters think the playmaker would be a stunning signing.
One fan was more realistic, saying it “would be naughty” but saying it feels “unlikely”. There is an element of truth to that, with McAtee getting a bit of game time at City and playing in the top tier last season.
Another thinks a return to Sheffield United is more likely, if he doesn’t stay in the Premier League though says McAtee is a “top player”. “Oh yes” was the response from another Leeds supporter.
The overriding feeling among Leeds fans is that McAtee would be a super signing, with one saying he would take McAtee “in a heartbeat”. But, that McAtee is probably out of Leeds’ range.
Leeds one of 12 clubs eyeing McAtee, and Aaronson comparison
Reports this week say that Leeds are one of 12 clubs interested in McAtee. Five clubs in the Premier League including Forest, Leicester, Southampton, West Ham and Fulham want to raid Manchester City.
Lille, Lens, Girona, Stuttgart, Celtic and Feyenoord are also among McAtee’s admirers. But there is no doubting that McAtee, a player who has experienced Championship promotion, would be a top signing.
Compared to Aaronson, and the American’s experiences in English football, McAtee is an improvement. More regular involvements in the Premier League and the Championship, and is a set-piece specialist.
