Burnley are likely to be in the market for a new defender this summer, and should consider Leeds United’s star as a replacement.
Pontus Jansson of Leeds United celebrates after the game
Pontus Jansson has impressed on loan for Leeds United this season, but who will sign the defender permanently from Torino in the summer.
The 26-year-old Sweden international has been a key player for Garry Monk’s side this season, scoring three goals and assisting two in his 30 league appearances.
Reports from the Mirror suggest his impressive form has attracted interest from Premier League side Southampton, who see him as a replacement for the likely departure of Virgil van Dijk.
However, should Burnley consider challenging their Premier League rivals as a replacement for their own want-away defender?
Newcastle’s Matt Ritchie and Leeds United’s Pontus Jansson in action
Former Manchester United centre-back Michael Keane is expected to depart the Clarets in the summer, with Manchester Evening News suggesting his former club, Liverpool, Tottenham and Everton are all interested in the 24-year-old.
The English defender is expected to fetch a transfer fee in the region of £25million should he depart Burnley at the end of the season.
Recent reports by The Sun have linked Burnley with out-of-favour Swans defender Kyle Bartley, who has been on loan at Leeds United this season.
However, with Bournemouth and Stoke City expected to challenge for the signing of the 25-year-old, Burnley should focus their attention on his in-form teammate Jansson instead.
The 6’3″ Swede has shown for Leeds a great ability in the air both defensively and offensively and has great awareness defending his own goal.
The signing of Jansson would add a defender who is comfortable with the ball at his feet, but who can also provide the Clarets with an extra goal threat from set-pieces. And the sale of Keane could go a long way to helping sign the £10m rated man.
Burnley’s Michael Keane during the match
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