Rob Holding (Getty Images)
As per Daily Mail (h/t Daily Star), Leeds United are considering a move for Arsenal star Rob Holding in the summer to bolster their defensive unit.
The report also suggests that Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is willing to listen to offers for Holding along with two other centre-backs. However, Leeds would benefit from the £25k-a-week starlet’s presence should they make a move for him as it would help them improve their squad depth.
The Englishman started his journey with Stalybridge Celtic Juniors before joining Bolton Wanderers’ youth system in 2003. He spent 13 years with the Wanderers’ youth and reserve sides before getting promoted to the club senior set-up and after appearing 30 times for them, he was signed by Arsenal in the summer of 2016.
However, his time at the Emirates hasn’t been successful so far due to his struggles with injury. So far, he has managed to feature in just 78 fixtures for the North London side.
However, he has been brilliant since the restart this season and did a good job in their 2-1 win over Liverpool in the league and also played a key role at the back in helping them lift the FA Cup title last month. Thus, Leeds making a move for Holding would be a wise decision by the club.
Whites boss Marcelo Bielsa has managed to take the team back to the Premier League for the first time since 2004. His players were outstanding in every department but most of the main members of the squad were on loan.
Thus, the manager should look to bring in reinforcements to the squad if they are to prolong in the top-flight. One key area which needs to be strengthened is the backline. Ben White and Liam Cooper formed a strong partnership throughout the campaign as they conceded just 35 goals, the best defensive record in the second tier for the 2019/20 season.
However, White’s departure leaves them with limited options. Thus, making a move for Holding would help them improve their options at the back.
The 24-year-old hasn’t played enough in the last few seasons but his form towards the end of the campaign showed that he is capable of doing a decent job at the top level. And he could be useful for the Whites next season as Gaetano Berardi is set to be out of action for a minimum of 9 months due to an injury he picked up in the penultimate game of the season against Derby County.
With limited options at the back, it is clear that Bielsa’s side are in dire need of centre-backs. And Holding, who is just 24, could establish himself as a key play in the long run. Thus, they should manage to lure the Englishman to Elland Road.
