Alessandro Florenzi (Getty Images)
According to Leeds Live, Leeds United are keeping tabs on the progress of AS Roma star Alessandro Florenzi ahead of the next season.
Florenzi, 29, spent time at the academies of Atletico Acilia and Lodigiani before rising through the ranks of Roma’s youth system. Though he made his Serie A debut in the 2010/11 season, he was sent on loan to Crotone, where he excelled with 11 goals and 2 assists.
Since his return, he has been a regular member of the squad, except for the time he was out of action due to a cruciate ligament rupture. He has been one of the key members in helping the Italian outfit qualify for the Champions League in the last two seasons.
However, he just returned from a six-month loan spell at Valencia. He has immense experience at the highest level and thus, Leeds should manage to secure his services this summer.
Marcelo Bielsa managed to Leeds back to the Premier League after the club’s 16-year absence from the top-flight. The Whites were brilliant throughout the campaign, lifting the Championship title. Now that they are back to where they belong, the manager should look to add depth to his squad.
The Whites don’t have a huge squad as they lack depth in several key areas. And this could hamper their progress in the top-flight. Thus, they need to bring in reinforcements if they are to perform according to the Premier League standards and survive.
One key area which needs to be strengthened is the right-back position. At the moment, Luke Ayling is the only established option available at the manager’s disposal. The Englishman was a regular member of the squad and was a key member at the back.
However, Bryce Hosannah is the only other option but he is too young and inexperienced. Thus, they need to bring in competition for Ayling, which could eventually help Leeds improve their depth at the back.
In that regard, Florenzi would be a fantastic option for the club. The Italian has made over 400 career appearances and has also represented his nation 35 times so far. He has immense experience under his belt and could bring competition for Ayling.
Moreover, Florenzi’s versatility could come in handy for the manager as he is capable of operating from anywhere on the right side of the pitch. With 70 goals and 34 assists in his career, it is proof that he could contribute immensely to the team’s attack.
With limited options on the right side of the defence, it is clear that Leeds are in dire need of right-backs. And Florenzi could provide them with some much-needed depth and quality. Thus, they should manage to lure the Italian to Elland Road this summer.
