Leeds need steel in midfield and contract rebel McLean can provide that.
McLean (R) has shown at Aberdeen a true eye for goal.
Leeds’ lack of steel in midfield during their recent run of three straight losses would have been no more apparent to anyone else than manager Thomas Christiansen, who cut a frustrated figure on the touchline.
Ireland international Eunan O’Kane has certainly impressed with the ball at his feet this season, but it is the defensive and physical sides of his game that require more brutality.
With Kalvin Phillips bombing on to join the attack, that midfield anchor is key and although Ronaldo Vieira impressed against Bristol City during Saturday’s 3-0 win, he is still learning the ropes at 19 years of age.
It should convince Christiansen that January investment is needed, and his attentions should look no further than north of the border to Aberdeen midfielder Kenny McLean.
The BBC quote Dons boss Derek McInnes as saying that 25-year-old McLean will be leaving Pittodrie at the end of his contract, which expires at the end of the season after rejecting a contract.
“Kenny has indicated he’s leaving at the end of the season and I’m grateful he’s been upfront,” McInnes said.
Derek McInnes.
The Daily Record claim that the former St. Mirren ace will be free to speak to other clubs from January onwards, and that should lure Christiansen into making a bid for the one-time Scotland international.
Possessing an eye for goal but more than capable of shepherding the back four, McLean has scored twice this season from a deeper role under McInnes. Aberdeen’s number seven also boasts an intricate array of passing, as well as being more than willing to put his body on the line for the team.
McLean has all the qualities Christiansen should be looking for in midfield, and with Aberdeen likely to sell in January to recuperate some money for his services, Leeds must look to win his signature to boost their promotion bid.
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