Marcelo Bielsa took over the reins at Leeds United in the summer of 2018 (Getty Images)
It is safe to say that Leeds United have had a quiet transfer window so far. The excitement about landing a major coup in appointing Marcelo Bielsa as manager has subsided. In its place, there has been a growing concern – and to some extent, frustration – about the Whites’ lack of signings this summer.
The only good news, besides a deal for Barry Douglas, has been Tom Pearce’s new contract. The left-back, who broke into the first-team last season, has agreed to a new four-year deal. His previous deal was up this summer and the new contract keeps him at Elland Road until the summer of 2021. Pearce becomes the latest player to commit to the club, following Pablo Hernandez, Bryce Hosannah and Oriol Rey.
The Whites have only managed to bring in Chelsea pair Jamal Blackman and Lewis Baker on season-long loan deals. While Pearce’s deal was a good start following weeks of uncertainty, Leeds need more signings. Appointing Bielsa will not be enough for Leeds to get back to the English top-flight. Hence, if they are aiming for promotion, the club must invest in procuring new signings.
That said, one must credit the club for having completed a shrewd piece of business that will fill fans with optimism. Barry Douglas is Bielsa’s first permanent signing. The defender has joined the club from newly-promoted Premier League outfit Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The left-back was outstanding last season as the Molineux side won the Championship. Bielsa is famous for his meticulous planning and to that end, signing Douglas is a great move. However, to turn the Elland Road outfit into genuine promotion contenders, Leeds must strengthen other parts of their squad.
The Whites were being linked with a swoop for Derby County striker Matej Vydra. The Czech Republic international scored 21 Championship goals and provided four assists for the Rams last season. There is still a week left before the transfer window slams shut but it looks like the Whites have already ended their interest in the talented attacker.
Nevertheless, Leeds should use these seven days to strengthen their squad with a signing or two. If they succeed, the Whites will be raring to head into next season.
