Leeds United must look elsewhere with reported Conor McLaughlin and Chris Gunter deals off

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Leeds United want to reinforce their right-back options but links with Reading’s Chris Gunter and Millwall newbie Conor McLaughlin have come to nothing.

Luke Ayling missed just four Championship games in a fine debut season for Leeds United. The right-back, a pillar of consistency and one of the most astute signings in the 2016/17 season, rapidly became one of the first names on Garry Monk’s team-sheet.

However, Leeds will may be praying that he remains as fit, in form and available next season under Thomas Christiansen. Because their attempts to reinforce the right-hand side of their defence have suffered another blow.

And this may lead to questions of Leeds’ newly appoited Director of Football Victor Orta.

The Teeside Gazette reported on Tuesday that The Whites were interested in Reading’s Mr Consistent Chris Gunter, boosted by reports that he had a £1 million buyout clause in his contract.

Chris Gunter helped Wales reach the semi-finals of Euro 2016

A 79-time Welsh international, Gunter helped The Royals reach the play-off final last season, losing on penalties to Huddersfield Town. And he would have been an excellent addition to Leeds squad, ensuring that Ayling would compete with a player of similar quality.

However, Leeds’ hopes were short lived with Gunter signing a new three-year contract at Reading on the same day as manager Jaap Stam committed his future to the club.

And, according to Sky Sports, their potential alternative option also appears to be out of Leeds’ grasp. Fleetwood Town right-back Conor McLaughlin had piqued Leeds’ interest, according to The Sun (page 59, June 25) with his contract at the League One club expiring after they fell at the semi-final stage of the League One play-offs.

However, Sky Sports report that McLaughlin, who represented Northern Ireland at Euro 2016 last summer, is set to sign for Championship newcomers Millwall instead.

Northern Ireland international Conor McLaughlin

This, coupled with Leeds’ decision to send youngster Lewie Coyle on loan to Fleetwood as a replacement for McLaughlin, means Ayling is Leeds’ only natural option at right-back as things stand.

Consequently, question marks may soon be asked of Leeds’ new recruitment team, headed up by Orta.