Ryan Kent (Image credit: Google)
According to The Sun, Leeds United are planning a shock move for Rangers star Ryan Kent ahead of their return to the Premier League.
The report suggests that the Yorkshire outfit are willing to part ways with £10m to secure his services. But that wouldn’t be enough to prize him away as Rangers are expecting better offers for their players. Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa had previously tried to land the winger and is hoping to be lucky on the third time of asking.
Born in England, Kent rose through the ranks of Liverpool’s youth system but couldn’t break into the club’s senior set-up. He was sent on loan spells to the lower leagues with Coventry City, Barnsley, and Bristol City and also spent half a season on loan in Germany with Freiburg.
However, after just one senior appearance for the Reds, he was signed by Rangers initially on loan before making the switch permanent last summer. Since his arrival in Scotland, he has been a regular member of the squad and has established himself under Steven Gerrard. Kent was also named the best young player in his debut season in the Scottish Premiership.
After successfully taking his side to the top-flight, Bielsa would be hoping to bring in reinforcements to prepare for life in the Premier League. And one key area the manager should focus on strengthening is the flanks.
At the moment, the Whites have just three natural wingers in the squad. Jack Harrison and Helder Costa were key players in their Championship-winning campaign. While the Portuguese international has made his move permanent, Harrison will be with Leeds for another season on loan.
Apart from them, Ivan Poveda is the only other option in the wide areas. But the former Manchester City youngster in inexperienced and cannot be depended upon throughout the campaign. Thus, they should consider bringing in a winger this summer.
In that regard, Kent would be a smart option for the club. The Englishman has been in sensational form for the Gers in the last couple of seasons. After racking up 6 goals and 6 assists in his debut season in Scotland, he continued with the fine form last season, scoring 8 goals in all competitions. He has gone from strength to strength and has improved a lot.
His inclusion would definitely bring healthy competition to Bielsa’s squad, whilst also providing some much-needed depth in the wide areas. He is just 23 and still has a lot of room for development.
With limited options on the flanks, it is clear that Leeds are in dire need of wingers to bolster their attack. And Kent could provide them with quality. He could also go on to represent them in the long if he is able to replicate the same form he has shown in the last two seasons.
