Leeds are expected to be busy this summer after a disappointing 2017-18 campaign.
Another year in the Championship has been met with even more frustration by Leeds United supporters, who had been excited by pre-season expectations of a top-six finish. But finishing in 13th, a major transfer overhaul is expected.
A new striker, centre-back, goalkeeper, left-back and perhaps a new winger will be on the shortlist this summer for Paul Heckingbottom – as well as adding top-quality depth to a bloated squad.
Leeds should admit Victor Orta’s mistake and throw a number of experimental signings on the scrapheap, such as the likes of Pawel Cibicki, Ouasim Buoy, Caleb Ekuban and more.
Heckingbottom should mirror a number of other Championship sides by using the Scottish Premiership as a source of recruitment. Martyn Waghorn has shone at Ipswich since his move from Rangers, while Aberdeen’s Kenny McLean is set to join Norwich City.
Midfield depth is required, and a player that can play deep, advanced and out wide should be brought in. Step forward Celtic’s Ryan Christie, who has shone on loan with McLean at Aberdeen.
The 23-year-old has been in excellent form, being involved in 23 goals during his 42 league and cup outings. He has scored eight goals and laid on 15 assists. A Scotland call-up has also come his way this term.
Martyn Waghorn has score 16 goals and provided 13 assists for Ipswich this season.
With only a year left on his contract with the Hoops, Christie’s future remains in doubt and although a permanent move to Aberdeen looks likely, surely Leeds should consider pipping the Dons to Christie’s signature?
Celtic could look to sell Christie permanently this summer, with Tom Rogic, Stuart Armstrong and Callum McGregor above him in the pecking order. Indeed, they may sell him for a cut-price offer in order to avoid losing him on a free next summer.
This season’s form, and the chance of a low asking price should be enough to convince Leeds to take a chance on Christie.
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