Leeds should move for Sunderland midfielder Rodwell on a free

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Jack Rodwell is set to have his contract torn up, so should Leeds make a move?

Leeds should give Sunderland midfielder Jack Rodwell a second chance to shine as he is reportedly set to see his contract at the Stadium of Light ripped up after failing to provide any kind of impact this season.

The Evening Chronicle claim Sunderland offered to tear the 26-year-old’s current deal in half, as the midfielder has made just two Championship appearances all season – the last of which came back in September.

Rodwell is said to be earning a huge £70,000 a week at Sunderland, and has 18 months remaining on his current deal but after two weeks without a response to Sunderland, there are fears Rodwell wants to sit out his contract.

However, Leeds should convince Rodwell that they will take him to Elland Road this month if indeed Rodwell does come to an agreement with Sunderland over the cancellation of his contract.

Rodwell is another unfortunate case of how moving to a Premier League big gun can back fire, after his transfer to Manchester City saw him struggle to gain any kind of regular first-team action.

The three-time England international managed just 25 City appearances in two seasons before joining Sunderland, where he impressed in the Black Cats continued fights against relegation.

But in the Championship, it has not worked and a move is needed. Leeds could be the perfect home for the determined, tough-tackling midfielder, after Eunan O’Kane was sidelined for three matches following a red card on Saturday.

The Ireland international’s form has been lukewarm of late anyway, and the red card on Saturday could see Thomas Christiansen consider his future in the first team. The Leeds boss should drop O’Kane and bring in Rodwell.

A player of Rodwell’s calibre would excite Leeds fans, while his work rate in the middle of the park and ability to score goals from deep would give the Whites the added push they need towards promotion. On a free, he would be an excellent signing.