Former Swansea City and current Southampton boss Russell Martin has already given Leeds United a rave review of reported target Ryan Manning. The Whites have been credited with an interest in the 27-year-old free agent after leaving Swansea at the end of his contract.
Daniel Farke's side will face competition from Sheffield United, Luton Town and Southampton for the left-back, who could be the perfect Junior Firpo successor. The Whites defender is expected to leave Elland Road this summer, stating he was ready for a fresh challenge following the club's relegation from the Premier League.
Manning would bring plenty of Championship experience and chipped in with chipped in with five goals and 10 assists from left-wing-back last season. Southampton - who're managed by Manning's Swansea City boss Martin - are understandably keen on a reunion.
However, it's not just Manning's productivity in the final third that's been so impressive. The former Swans defender can play anywhere down the left, as well as the heart of defence and in midfield.
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"Ryan is someone who can play anywhere,” Martin told the Swansea website. “I joined in training one day, unfortunately, I can still run around a bit, but it gives me a feel for the understanding the players have.
“I always think you know a player better if you play with them and straight away you could see that he can play football. He plays with a real level of detail and a real level of care. He gets it.
“I think he has been left to his own devices and worked away in his career without really establishing himself in one position. But we are going to be very demanding of him because he is a talented player.
"He knows my feelings about him as a character and a player and he is responding brilliantly. I hope he can keep going, wherever he plays he is going to be an important player for us."
