Left-back is now a priority position for Leeds United following the permanent sale of Leif Davis to Ipswich Town. Earlier in the window, it had looked as though Leeds were happy to go into the season with what they had in that position.
However, the eight-week injury to Junior Firpo, coupled with Davis’ exit, has left the Whites extremely short and so it is an area they will now look to strengthen. At this stage, it remains unclear as to who belongs on Victor Orta’s shortlist, and in truth links have been few and far between.
However, here is a look at each of the left-backs Leeds have been linked so far in the window.
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Sergio Gomez – Anderlecht
Links to Anderlecht’s Sergio Gomez actually emerged prior to the end of the season, though reports seem to have gone cold since then. Gomez is certainly someone who excels from an attacking point of view at left-back, as he scored seven goals and provided 15 assists in all competitions last season.
Attacking quality from full-back is an important attribute in Jesse Marsch’s system given the narrowness of the wingers, meaning he could fit the bill. At 21, he still has plenty of time to improve, too.
Josh Tymon – Stoke City
Stoke City’s Josh Tymon has established himself as one of the Championship’s best left-backs in the last 12 months. He made 44 appearances in the league during the 2021/22 campaign, netting one goal and registering four assists in a fairly average Stoke side.
The likes of Rangers and Norwich City have also been linked with Tymon, though the former have recently brought in a new left-back. Tymon would represent a low-cost, low-risk deal if pursued.
Zak Sturge – Brighton (now at Chelsea)
An option that was perhaps viewed more as an U21 signing was Zak Sturge, though Chelsea have already pipped Leeds to his signature. At just 18, Leeds would’ve likely needed a more senior option even if Sturge opted for Elland Road.
Gerardo Arteaga – Genk
The second option linked with Leeds from the Belgian League is Genk’s Gerardo Arteaga. Arteaga is a Mexican international and is also reportedly of interest to other Premier League clubs, one of which includes Manchester City if they fail to land Marc Cucurella.
The 23-year-old provided four assists in 26 matches last season and has just one year left to run on his current deal at Genk.
Miguel Gutierrez – Real Madrid
The most recent link to emerge at left-back is Real Madrid’s Miguel Gutierrez, with reports stating on Tuesday morning he is on Orta’s shortlist. Gutierrez has made 10 appearances for Madrid’s first team but finds himself behind a number of players in the pecking order.
The 20-year-old is a very promising youngster and already has two assists for Los Blancos during his appearances for the club. Given his age and pedigree, this feels like the sort of player Orta will look to target.
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