Should Leeds United ask about the Newcastle United man if Eliaquim Mangala or another defender arrives on Tyneside?
Leeds United held Hull City to a 0-0 draw last night – but it came at something of a cost.
Matthew Pennington fell injured before kickoff and had to be replaced in central defence by Conor Shaughnessy, who was stretchered off within six minutes of the stalemate.
Depending on the severity of the injuries, it could force Leeds into the market for a centre-back before tonight’s 11pm transfer deadline – and Ciaran Clark from Newcastle United represents a very decent option.
Newcastle are, according to ESPN, one of several teams chasing Manchester City’s Eliaquim Mangala and signing him would surely mean that Clark drops out of United’s first XI.
Even if they don’t sign him, their widely-reported interest suggests that manager Rafael Benitez wants someone else to partner Jamal Lascelles in the centre of defence and Clark – a £5 million signing in 2016 – could be available.
The Republic of Ireland defender helped the Magpies to Premier League promotion last term and his experience could help Leeds this season as Thomas Christiansen’s side aim for the same goal.
In truth, the Whites need someone good enough to compete with first-team regulars Pontus Jansson and Liam Cooper, and Clark certainly fits the bil in this regard.
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