Leeds United have made enquiries into signing Josh Brownhill from Burnley this summer as Marcelo Bielsa is a big fan of the West Ham and Aston Villa target, according to TEAMtalk.
Bielsa greatly admires what Brownhill would be capable of offering in Leeds’ second season back in the Premier League. The Whites have so far strengthened the Argentine’s squad with the arrivals of Junior Firpo and Kristoffer Klaesson, while retaining Jack Harrison.
But Victor Orta’s spending failed to prevent the Elland Road outfit from suffering a difficult start to the season. Manchester United comfortably beat Leeds 5-2 on Saturday, with Bruno Fernandes running rings around Robin Koch. Mateusz Klich also struggled to limit Fred or Scott McTominay, as the Red Devils controlled the midfield battle.
Leeds could look to strengthen Bielsa’s squad further having made enquiries into Brownhill potentially leaving Burnley before August 31. But the Clarets would be reluctant to lose the 25-year-old, and will likely demand at least £15m for his transfer.
Aston Villa and West Ham also admire Brownhill and have monitored his situation this summer. David Moyes, in particular, believes the Warrington-born technician would be an ideal successor for Mark Noble at the London Stadium.
Dean Smith’s Villans, meanwhile, are yet to register their interest in Brownhill. Although the Birmingham outfit, like West Ham, have long been keen and scouted him often last season. Yet faced another potential hurdle, as LancsLive noted he had no interest in joining either in March. Giving up almost guaranteed minutes under Sean Dyche to challenge for his place.
Burnley star Brownhill can give Bielsa immense energy in the Leeds engine room
Orta striking a deal with Burnley for Brownhill can see the Leeds chief add immense energy to Bielsa’s engine room. The Preston North End product would also offer the Argentine a constant option, having been a mainstay of Dyche’s unit.
Brownhill started 32 of his 33 Premier League appearances last season, and was a versatile operator, too. Dyche awarded him minutes in holding, central and attacking midfield roles, as well as on either wing. The Clarets boss was often also full of praise.
“He got thrown in at the deep end against Man City playing wide,” Dyche said, via Burnley Express. “But I was really pleased with what he offered, and he’s never really looked back. Boundless energy, will and desire, and he’s a good footballer. I’ve been really pleased.”
Leeds can also deny Moyes’ his ideal future West Ham midfielder, having moved to sign Brownhill from Burnley. Orta now needs to convince him of leaving Turf Moor for Elland Road, if he’s to join.
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