Doesn’t Vurnon Anita tick the same boxes as Leeds January target Josh Vela?

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Leeds United have been linked with a move for Josh Vela from their Championship rivals.

According to a recent report from the Daily Mail, Leeds are amongst the sides who are interested in Bolton Wanderers midfielder Josh Vela ahead of the January transfer window.

Vela has been one of the Trotters’ more impressive performers this term, so it is arguably little surprise that a queue of sides appear to be forming in the race to bag his signature – with Championship rivals Derby and Sheffield Wednesday joining Premier League outfit Brighton in keeping a keen eye on the 23-year-old.

With 18 months left on his contract, according to the Mail, Vela may be a smart signing and could perhaps arrive for a bargain fee given Bolton’s financial difficulties – but surely it could be argued that Leeds pursuing a deal for the midfielder is an odd move.

Vela is a central midfielder but is also capable of playing in a variety of other positions, including at full-back. With the likes of Kalvin Phillips, Ronaldo Vieira and Eunan O’Kane shining in the middle of the park so far this season at Elland Road, it would make sense if his versatility was what was particularly appealing to Thomas Christiansen.

But surely the Leeds boss does not need to sign a midfielder who can double up as a utility player – as he already has one in the squad.

Vurnon Anita’s arrival in the summer appeared to be something of a coup given that he was signed on a free transfer shortly after helping Newcastle secure promotion to the top flight.

The Dutchman has been deployed at left-back when he has been on the pitch for the Whites. And while his performances have not always impressed, he has done well given that playing on the left-hand side of the defence is not his favoured position.

It could surely be argued that he deserves to be given the chance to fill the void in central midfield that Christiansen perhaps sees Vela filling if he arrives at Leeds – while he has shown that he is arguably as good as the Bolton man at being able to fill in in various roles, so perhaps Christiansen should consider whether Vela is really needed when Anita seems to tick the same boxes.