Leeds Poised to Pursue “Quality” Gray Replacement, Considered Superior to Roberts – Opinion
Leeds United are gradually strengthening their squad this transfer window, with Joe Rothwell being the latest addition to Daniel Farke’s team. This follows the low-key signing of Alex Cairns from Salford City to bolster the goalkeeper positions. Supporters of the West Yorkshire side now eagerly await the first high-profile purchase at Elland Road.
A new right-back may soon join Farke’s group, with no planned deal for Connor Roberts to return.
Leeds Eyeing £7m Signing
Football journalist Mike McGrath reports that Leeds are ‘set to move’ for Sheffield United right-back Jayden Bogle to address long-standing issues on that flank. Archie Gray filled this position frequently last season, but with the 18-year-old now at Tottenham Hotspur, Farke and his team are considering their options for the upcoming season.
Securing Bogle won’t be straightforward. Football journalist Alan Nixon notes that Sheffield United wants Leeds to pay £7m for the right-back, a sum the West Yorkshire outfit is currently reluctant to meet.
Despite this price hurdle, Leeds may still pursue Bogle aggressively. Football journalist Graham Smyth adds that an imminent move for Roberts isn’t planned, increasing the focus on acquiring Bogle. The 23-year-old is seen as an upgrade over his Burnley counterpart, given their performances last season.
What Bogle Can Offer Leeds
Bogle, as demonstrated by his goal against Manchester City last August, is not afraid to push forward and contribute to attacks, fitting well with Farke’s attacking philosophy. The Blades’ number 20 has scored 12 goals in 103 games for South Yorkshire, with 115 Championship games and 16 assists on his career resume.
In contrast, Roberts struggled to secure a starting spot at Leeds last season, averaging just 27 minutes per game under Farke. Bogle’s 4.8 total duels won per game last season outperformed Sam Byram’s 4.4 duels, showing his defensive prowess even in a challenging season for Sheffield United.
Roberts aims to rebound with Burnley, now in the same division as Leeds, under new manager Scott Parker. Meanwhile, Farke and his team must decide if a £7m investment in Bogle is worthwhile, knowing the 23-year-old, once praised as a “quality” player by Blades boss Chris Wilder, could resolve many selection issues moving forward.
As Leeds United continues to build their squad, securing a talented right-back like Bogle could be pivotal in their quest for promotion. The decision will hinge on balancing the financial investment with the potential impact on the team’s performance.
