The Mail+ claim Philadelphia Union left-back Kai Wagner is waiting for a phone call from Leeds United on deadline day ahead of a potential last-minute move – amid previous reports that Leeds think they can get Wagner for £2.5million.
Wagner, 25, has spent the last three and a half seasons at MLS side Philadelphia. In that time, the German left-back has established himself as being, widely-regarded, the best left-sided defender in the division. He has played 120 times.
In that time, he has scored four goals and laid on 18 assists. Creative in an attacking sense, then, but also very solid defensively. Wagner is out of contract at the end of the MLS season, meaning he is in the final six months of his deal.
Leeds could, then, sign him on a pre-contract basis under the Bosman ruling. It would mean he would join Leeds in the January window for nothing. However, previous reports state that Leeds would be willing to pay £2.5million for him.
Now, the Mail+ claim that Wagner is waiting for a phone call on deadline day from Leeds. However, he may be left disappointed. The report says Leeds are focusing on signing an attacker on the final day, forcing Wagner to be patient.
German left-back Wagner waiting for Leeds call on deadline day
Leeds have been using centre-back Pascal Struijk on the left of their defence so far, this season. But the ex-Ajax academy player has been excellent, and is starting to establish himself in that role. The need has reduced at left-back.
Do Leeds need another option? If Struijk is to be viewed as a left-back permanently, going forward, then no. Junior Firpo will provide competition as he edges closer to a return from injury. With two options, Wagner is not needed.
Stuart Dallas is also on his way back, though is unlikely to return from a broken leg until the new year. So, while the interest in Wagner is understandable, the need for a left-back is reducing at Elland Road.
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