Leeds United opinion: Should the Whites go for Justin Lonwijk?

The Daily Star and Tuttomercatoweb have reported that Leeds United are ready to fight AS Roma for PSV Eindhoven midfielder Justin Lonwijk.

The teenage starlet hasn’t made his senior debut for the club yet but is still considered as one of their brightest prospects. That’s exactly why Marcelo Bielsa has shortlisted the 19-year-old, as he considers Leeds’ future.

At the moment, the Whites sit in third place after leading the Championship for most of the season but they are still in the race. Norwich City lead the pack with 78 points to their name, with Sheffield United four points behind and Leeds United five points behind.

Bielsa’s side still have a chance to win the title as there are eight games left before the season ends.

But even if they do win the Championship, the Whites’ teamsheet will need more than a few additions. Things might get complicated once the summer window opens, but adding Justin Lonwijk once his current deal expires, makes the move a no-brainer.

An attacking midfielder by trade, Lonwijk can play anywhere in the midfield but it’s as a number 10 or a trequartista that he really flourishes. Vision, passing and agility, the 19-year-old combines all three brilliantly, which makes him a joy to watch.

Furthermore, the Dutch international has the ability to simply glide about the pitch and is by no means a pushover. For an attacking midfielder, Lonwijk is surprisingly strong and uses his 6’2” frame to great effect, shrugging off defenders at will.

It’s that tenacious and aggressive nature that makes him close to perfect for Marcelo Bielsa, as that’s what the Argentine demands from his players. Like most modern managers, Bielsa wants his players to do their fair share of offensive and defensive work.

That personifies Lonwijk more than anything, as the 19-year-old has shown that he is more than willing to go above and beyond for his team. More so, Leeds United have depended on both Pablo Hernandez and Mateusz Klich, with the two combining for 18 assists so far this season.

Justin Lonwijk, on the other hand, has produced 26 goals in 50 appearances since he moved to Eindhoven. That is at a rate much better than either Hernandez or Klich, and Lonwijk has yet to play a first-team minute.

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Conclusion

Adding Justin Lonwijk would secure Leeds United’s future and moreover, getting the young midfielder once his contract ends, means that it will be a bargain deal for the teenager. Undoubtedly talented, the Dutchman has a bright future and it’s one that Leeds United need to ensure.