A new left-back is expected to be one of the main priorities for Leeds United when the transfer window reopens in January.
Pascal Struijk filled the void excellently for the injured Junior Firpo at the start of the season, and has retained his position since Firpo's return to fitness.
Firpo has struggled since his arrival from Barcelona in the summer of 2021, and Leeds' failure to land a left-back in the previous window has left them thin on the ground.
With the January transfer window edging closer, LeedsLive have taken a look at the possible options available to Jesse Marsch during the winter.
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Kai Wagner - Philadelphia Union
Kai Wagner is one option that Leeds may explore. The 25-year-old has reportedly signed a contract extension with Philadelphia Union until 2023 but has previously been vocal about his desire to return to Europe.
L'Equipe journalist Kevin Nieto claimed last week that his new deal may be a ploy to increase his price tag. Although there is the issue of Wagner lacking top-flight experience in Europe, the German left-back hasn't been short of suitors, with OGC Nice and Newcastle United showing an interest.
Leeds have also shown a strong interest in Wagner, who has been one of the best defenders in the MLS for the last three seasons. He registered nine assists alone last season, as Union reached the MLS Cup final.
Union also boasted the best defensive record during the MLS regular season - conceding just 26 goals in 34 games.
Jesus Vasquez - Valencia
Jesus Vasquez is the latest left-back to be linked with a potential transfer to Elland Road. Spanish outlet AS reported earlier this week that Victor Orta has held secret talks in Singapore with Valencia's representatives regarding the 19-year-old.
The report added that talks have intensified over a potential January switch, with a clause in his contract allowing him to leave the La Liga side in the new year.
The former Spain U19 international has amassed 22 appearances for Valencia since making his senior debut in August 2021.
However, Vasquez is behind club captain Jose Gaya and Toni Lato in the pecking order, and has even filled in at right-back and left midfield to increase his playing time.
Fabiano Parisi
Empoli left-back Fabiano Parisi has been linked with the Whites for a number of months. His agent Mario Giuffredi confirmed that Leeds were among a number of clubs interested, although Parisi distanced himself from the speculation in an interview with Gazetta dello Sport.
The 22-year-old, who has also received interest from Torino, Fiorentina, Atalanta and Nice, revealed in September: "I am not thinking of the transfer market, but of playing well at Empoli. It is the ideal club for young people. They allow you to grow without pressure and allow you to make mistakes."
Pairisi's comments were then followed by Empoli president Fabrizio Corsi insisting that the left-back will not be sold in January. Despite his claims, the rumours have continued to rumble, and Parisi has impressed with Empoli in the top-flight.
He was handed his first call-up by Italy in November, albeit as an unused substitute in a 2-0 defeat against Austria, and has scored two goals in 15 appearances in all competitions.
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