Three centre-backs Leeds can land on a free transfer

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Leeds could do with an addition at centre-back, but would have to consider the free agent market.

Leeds United have undergone a major transformation since Marcelo Bielsa took control of the squad, signing six new players and axing 24 as the Argentine offloaded the Whites’ dead wood.

Of those 24, Leeds decided to allow Paudie O’Connor to join Blackpool on loan this summer, while the club also waved goodbye to Matthew Pennington who has since joined Ipswich Town on loan from Everton.

It leaves Leeds light at centre-back, with full-back Gaetano Berardi playing at centre-back while Liam Cooper and Pontus Jansson are also vying for a place.

The free agent market remains open, and Leeds should consider one of these defenders on a free transfer:

Nedum Onuoha

The former QPR captain is available on a free transfer after his contract at Loftus Road expired, and the 31-year-old is on the lookout for a new club with Championship offers likely to be aplenty.

Leeds should consider the ex-Manchester City man, with Onuoha proving to be an experienced second-tier performer after clocking up 145 Championship appearances. Adding leadership, experience and fight, Onuoha would be a top addition.

Philipp Wollscheid

The German stopper has become somewhat of a journeyman in recent years after failing to fulfil the hype surrounding him as a youngster. Now 29, Wollscheid is without a club after a short stint in France with Metz.

The former Stoke City player stands at a lofty 6ft 4in and although he is not the quickest, he is certainly one of the strongest. A two-time Germany international, Wollscheid would be an excellent addition on a free if Bielsa can get the best out of him.

Essaid Belkalem

Linked with Leeds back in 2016, Algeria international Belkalem is still only 29 years of age. The former Watford defender made 10 appearances for the Premier League side after joining in 2013.

But the powerful defender has since played in France and Turkey, and most recently returned to Algeria with his first club JS Kabylie. A free agent, Belkalem is certainly more than equipped to play in the Championship, but should be a last resort.