Two Replacements For Charlie Taylor Leeds Can Target
Given that he put in a transfer request at the end of last season and then refused to play the final game of the campaign that recently ended, it has been accepted by most that Charlie Taylor will be leaving Leeds United.
You could argue that he displayed a complete lack of respect for the club towards the end of last season and was punished by then manager Garry Monk. The former Swansea boss has since departed and has joined Tony Pulis of West Brom in the rather short list of serious takers for the York-born full-back now that he is in charge at Championship rivals Middlesbrough.
Although it’s not beyond the realms of possibility that Taylor could yet sign a new deal and remain at Elland Road beyond September, the most likely outcome is still that he will be lured away by the association of clubs and agents who see the constant movement of players as a good thing for the game.
Taylor, despite the attitude problem, is certainly a player who will need to be replaced and here we look at two possible successors for his position.
Massadio Haidara (Newcastle United)
With the Toon’s promotion secure, the budget for new signings seemingly acceptable, Haidara is one of a host of players deemed surplus to requirements by Rafa Benitez.
Riddled with injury problems in his career so far, the Frenchman doesn’t come without a risk. However, he would not be an expensive signing and has indisputable talent, meaning that he would be a fair bet. Haidara is another modern full-back who is excellent when going forward at this level and so Leeds would not miss Taylor’s attacking threat too much. One to keep a watch.
Greg Cunningham (Preston North End)
Cunningham played 40 times last season in the Championship for Preston, starting in all of them and managing a goal and 5 assists in what was an impressive attacking performance. The current Preston number three would also add some versatility to the Leeds United squad.
Cunningham has been a real improver in the last year or two and there’s nothing to say that he won’t get better again over the next twelve months. Available at a really cheap price, he could be a real steal for new boss Tomas Christiansen.