Leeds United are reportedly eyeing Bournemouth defender Tyrone Mings.
Marcelo Bielsa has had to deal with so many injuries in defence this term, and it appears that there is a fear that the Whites have suffered another setback this week involving Gaetano Berardi.
Berardi made his return for the under-23s after being sidelined since October. But the Swiss did not see the first-half out before being taken off due to an apparent knock – though he did leave the pitch without a limp, which hints that it may only be a minor setback.
Nevertheless, it would appear that Bielsa could target signing a new defender this month. The Daily Mail (23/1; page 65) reports that Leeds have put themselves in the hunt to sign Mings on loan.
Mings – who joined the Cherries for £8 million, according to BBC Sport – is also on West Brom’s and Villa’s radar, with the Baggies stepping up their interest.
The 25-year-old would arguably be a good addition for Bielsa’s squad if Leeds did decide to ramp up their own attempts to land the defender this month.
He has struggled with injury, so a move would probably be a gamble. But if he can stay fit, he is the kind of player that could put real pressure on the likes of Pontus Jansson, Liam Cooper and Berardi, while he could also battle with Barry Douglas for the left-back role.
It does appear that Leeds are not the side leading the chase for Mings right now, and his injury problems will worry the supporters given how many players have been sidelined already this season.
But there is no question that he could have the potential to be an inspired signing for most teams in the second tier. And with Leeds involved in a promotion race, one more shrewd signing could perhaps make a huge difference.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
