James Wilson may be right for Sheffield United, but he is a striker Leeds United were right to step back from.
Leeds United have made some questionable transfer moves since Victor Orta took over as technical director, but in stepping back from the pursuit of James Wilson they have avoided another potential error.
Wilson sealed his loan switch to Sheffield United yesterday, where he hopes to play a crucial role in the Blades promotion hunt.
With Sheffield United just one place behind sixth placed Leeds and already having scored three goals more, it could be considered as a season changing acquisition if Wilson can fulfil his potential at Bramall Lane.
The Sun had reported earlier this season that Wilson was interesting Leeds United.
Manchester United talent Wilson is a bright prospect and England youth international, but he is not the striker Leeds need.
Leeds are looking for a proven goalscorer, capable of dealing with pressure and leading the line. Wilson is not, yet, that player.
At Sheffield United, Wilson will get the chance to also play in front of big crowds, but he also will not be put under pressure, due to reliable goalscorer Billy Sharp and Leon Clarke.
Leeds lack a player like Sharp – ironically as they sold him to the Blades in 2015 – and between them Sharp and Clarke have netted 23 goals this season.
The Whites do not have a player in double figures yet, and expectation on Wilson to be that man would likely see him falter.
The Manchester United connection would not help either, with fans extra sceptical after Cameron Borthwick-Jackson’s loan flop.
At Sheffield United, Wilson may play less regularly, but he can be eased into his role and will not be quickly written off.
Leeds need a proven goalscorer and Wilson is still trying to become that player. Stepping back and letting the Blades have him is the right move – but technical director Victor Orta must still go and find a solution.
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