According to a report by Birmingham Mail, Leeds United are interested in signing former Arsenal star Chris Willock.
The report further states that the Whites have been keeping close tabs on him and even sent scouts to monitor his performances recently.
Currently playing for Benfica, Willock moved to the Primeira Liga last summer. It is unsure as to whether Leeds are looking for a permanent deal or a loan move but regardless, Willock certainly seems like a great option.
Since joining Benfica, he has essayed a key role for their reserves but continues to struggle to break into the first-team. Having played in England before, the youngster could be open to the prospect of returning to the country with the Championship outfit.
A London boy through and through, Willock has represented England across the U16 and U20 levels. He seems to have lost his way at Benfica but moving to Leeds would not only allow him to bag regular first-team minutes but also possibly return to the England setup.
The 20-year-old is contracted to Benfica until 2020, meaning Leeds may have to stump up a significant fee to acquire his services. But considering the situation at the club, they could truly utilize a player of his calibre. The Whites have been without a proper striker for the longest time now.
Upon arriving at Elland Road, Marcelo Bielsa chose to deploy Kemar Roofe as the striker. Much to the relief of the fans, Roofe has done a good job but Leeds cannot continue relying on him for the rest of the season.
Bielsa is known for his intense tactics and training regimes. Plus, the pressure of playing and delivering results week in and week out will surely take a toll on Roofe sooner rather than later.
Hence, to balance out the side, Bielsa must sign a new striker in the January window. And to that end, a move for Willock does seem like a good one. It could be argued that he lacks experience at the top level and that is true. But signing such a young player would allow Bielsa to mould and develop him to suit Leeds’ current playing style and tactics.
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The way Leeds have been playing so far, they look set to break into the Premier League next season. But to ensure they maintain the momentum and avoid any last-minute slip-ups, Leeds must do the right thing and pursue Chris Willock.
