Arsenal defender could be an upgrade for Leeds on Matthew Pennington.
Leeds United are unlikely to bring back Matthew Pennington from Everton after an inconsistent and injury hit season on loan.
Centre-back is clearly a priority with interest registered in Swansea City’s Kyle Bartley, report the Yorkshire Evening Post.
A smart alternative would be Arsenal centre-back Rob Holding, who has been used sparingly this season.
It’s unlikely Holding would be available on a permanent deal, but a loan switch would be wise for all parties.
Holding starred in Arsenal’s FA Cup final win over Chelsea in 2017, proving his quality, and the former Bolton Wanderers defender needs to be playing regularly.
This season he was handed only nine Premier League starts out of a possible 38.
This summer is a pivotal one for Holding as Arsenal look to appoint a new manager, who will want to bring in his own players.
A long term replacement for Per Mertesacker is considered a priority, and the signing of a big name defender would push Holding down the pecking order.
Holding is 22-years-old and is highly talented. Had he been given regular football at Arsenal this season he could even have put himself in contention for this year’s World Cup squad.
Leeds should enquire after Holding now and monitor his situation through the summer as one of several options, as he could be an upgrade over both Matthew Pennington and club captain Liam Cooper.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
