da 888casino： This article is part of Football FanCast’s Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba’s haircuts to League Two relegation battles…
da apostaganha： We may only be mid-way through October but it seems as if plans are already being put in motion for a busy January transfer window.
Leeds were extremely active during the summer market as they shipped on 31 players either on a temporary or permanent basis.
But the winter looks as though it’ll be another interesting period for Victor Orta, not least in the fact he may have to fight hard to keep Eddie Nketiah in west Yorkshire.
Talk of a potential recall has done the rounds in recent days with Bristol City monitoring the 20-year-old again.
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However, it’s a player one year his junior that is now at the centre of attention.
Chelsea’s Reece James has been linked with a move to Elland Road, one that could see him join the Whites on loan if he falls out of favour under Frank Lampard.
Whether the Blues boss would consider business with a side he clashed with over Spygate last season remains to be seen, but despite James’ superb qualities, Orta would be wasting his time by trying to land him.
It’s no secret how exceptional the 19-year-old was in the Championship last term, starring at right back and eventually in the middle of the pitch too.
He was a consistent figure, winning 2.1 tackles per game but also registering 1.6 crosses each outing on average.
A highly-rated prospect, he’s been compared to a Chelsea stalwart of the past as well. Journalist Joe Tweedie previously noted: “When you marry his physicality (James has a touch of the Michael Essien’s about him) with great technique, you have a serious prospect on your hands.”
A glowing report indeed, but do Leeds actually need him? Arguably not. It’s important to consider those in the pecking order at Elland Road and there is already huge competition at both right-back and in the middle of the pitch.
The defensive midfield role he played in at times for Wigan is occupied by Kalvin Phillips while Luke Ayling and Stuart Dallas are set to battle it out at full-back.
The latter has earned considerable plaudits from supporters this term and Ayling played 40 times in the Championship last term so it would be a challenge for James to dislodge the pair of them.
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With just five loanees allowed in a single matchday squad, Orta would be better off considering a temporary deal for someone in a position they’re light in or lacking quality – not a right back.
Anyone for an added centre half or striker?