Aston Villa defender Micah Richards would be a fantastic acquisition for Leeds United if they are able to afford him.
Leeds United are a side in desperate need of experienced defensive re-inforcements. The Elland Road club endured a disappointing 2015/16 campaign that culminated in a 13th-place finish, after they shipped 58 goals in 46 games.
As a result Leeds boss Garry Monk should seriously consider a move for Aston Villa’s versatile defender Micah Richards. The Villans are overloaded with centre-back options, especially after the signing of Tommy Elphick and could be looking to offload some of their defenders.
Richards’ pace and power would be a great asset for Leeds, should a move come to fruition
It is hard to believe that the former Manchester City star Richards is only 28, after seemingly being involved in the game for so long.
He has an imposing physical presence, and his vocal personality at the back would be priceless for a team like Leeds who desperately lacked any kind of leadership last term. He also possesses exceptional pace, which is unusual for such a big man, that enables him to push high up the pitch and recover if need be when the back-line are caught out with a through-ball.
Aston Villa’s Micah Richards failed to help his side avoid relegation last term
Although born in Birmingham, Richards grew up in Chapletown in Leeds, and his boyhood allegiances could play a part in a potential move. He began his youth career at Elland Road and has always looked back with fond memories, with the 28-year-old telling the Yorkshire Evening Post: “They always supported me when I was a young player coming through.”
The Telegraph reported earlier this year that Richards has a release clause of just £5 million, so whether or not Leeds would be able to afford that fee plus his wages is another matter, but it should, nevertheless, be an option that they at least explore.
If a move was to come to fruition, Leeds would certainly be in a far stronger position to challenge for promotion.
Leeds United manager Garry Monk should explore whether bringing Richards to Elland Road is a possibility
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