“Quality”: Carlo Ancelotti loves “fast, strong” £2m Leeds target as Marsch eyes January deal

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Leeds are said to be interested in signing Mason Holgate in January – a player Carlo Ancelotti rates very highly.

What’s the story?

Well, it was The Sun who claimed that Jesse Marsch wants to bring the Everton No.4 to Elland Road this winter, as the American aims to improve his defensive options.

Leeds have already made contact with the Toffees over a deal for Holgate, who moved to Goodison Park from Barnsley back in 2015 for a sum of £2m.

The 26-year-old has endured a tough time under Frank Lampard so far this season, making just four appearances in the Premier League due to a knee injury.

James Tarkowski and Conor Coady’s impressive partnership together has also affected Holgate’s chances of game time since his return to full fitness.

If Victor Orta does manage to strike a deal with Everton in January, Leeds fans have reason to be excited based on comments made by Ancelotti, one of the greatest managers of his generation.

The Italian – who has won the Champions League on four occasions – worked with Holgate during his time at Goodison Park.

Ancelotti showered the Yorkshire-born defender in praise on many occasions, and tipped him to have a “fantastic career” if he can maintain his focus.

Speaking to Everton’s official website in March 2020, the 63-year-old said: “He has the quality to be at the top as a defender.

“He is fast, strong physically and good with his head. He is a complete defender. He is really young and wants to improve. He has made no mistakes in the games, nothing serious. If he retains his focus, he can go to the top. I think he is going to have a fantastic career.”

Leeds must pounce if Holgate opportunity arises

If Lampard does agree to let Holgate depart Merseyside, Leeds must be ready to pounce.

At the age of 26, the versatile defender, who can play in the centre or at right-back, has plenty of time to fulfil the vast potential Ancelotti said he has.

Only Southampton, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest have conceded more goals than Leeds this season, with March’s leaky side shipping 26 goals in just 14 Premier League games.

Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Holgate may even push for a return to Yorkshire as he finds himself on the bench at Everton.