Gaetano Berardi could face fight for his future at Leeds United

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Leeds United defender Gaetano Berardi’s place in Paul Heckingbottom’s line-up is under threat.

Gaetano Berardi could face a fight to win his place in Leeds United’s team back next season, with Paul Heckingbottom’s options in both full-back positions set to increase.

According to Bild, Kristian Pedersen is on the verge of signing for a Championship club from Union Berlin, just weeks after he was initially linked with Leeds.

If he does move to Elland Road, the left-back would strengthen Leeds’ defence for next term, and give the likes of Tom Pearce and Laurens De Bock a battle for a place in the team.

Given that Pedersen, Pearce and De Bock are all natural left-backs, it seems that playing Berardi out of position will now no longer be necessary for the Whites.

The Swiss international’s versatility has helped Leeds in recent seasons, but Leeds are no longer short at left-back.

The problem for Berardi is Leeds already have Luke Ayling monopolising the spot on the right hand side of their defence, in his more natural position.

Ayling has already seen off the threat of Berardi to become Leeds’ first choice at right-back, and the return of Lewie Coyle from loan makes things even more complicated.

And if Leeds do complete the signing of Pederesen, it seems that Berardi could face a fight for his future at Elland Road.