Last season, Daniel Farke’s tactics depended heavily on the Leeds United fullbacks. Junior Firpo and Jayden Bogle ended the campaign with highly productive seasons.
They were flying up and down the flanks as the Whites played some of the best attacking football in recent years.
However, going into the Premier League, much had to change. First, Leeds could not dominate every opponent in the top flight, and the second reason was the team lost a key player.
Junior Firpo’s contract expired and he failed to take the club’s offer, ending up in Spain.
In the last summer window, Leeds United signed James Justin and Gabriel Gudmundsson.
Leeds United eye Premier League defender
Justin was a hugely successful signing; he provided depth and versatility for Daniel Farke. He was able to play center back, right back and left back and he chipped in with some goals.
Gudmundsson slotted in to the left back position vacated by Junior Firpo. Although the Swedish international does not match the attacking input of his predecessor, he affects the team in other ways.
He is a solid defender and has the technical ability to be relied upon during the build up. Gudmundsson missed the final games of this past season due to injury.
Now, reports suggest that Leeds are after a new left back. According to SportsBoom, Matt Target is on the Whites’ radar heading into the summer.
The report adds that multiple teams are after the veteran defender including Middlesbrough, Coventry City and Southampton.
Targett had an impressive season on loan in the Championship last season, which has raised interest. He is a free agent next month and is allowed to sign with any team.
Middlesbrough are said to have the upper hand following the defender’s loan spell there this past season.
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Gabriel Gudmundsson needs backup next season
The report adds that Leeds United are in the market to sign the 30-year old as they look for experienced options in the squad.
Gabriel Gudmundsson is a fantastic player, but Farke has struggled to find a natural replacement for him anytime he is unavailable.
Sam Byram will most likely leave Elland Road in the summer, which leaves one less option that can play the position. Leeds can bring in Targett to provide cover for the position.
He has experience at the Premier League level and can still perform at his age.
