Why Haydon Roberts would be a good investment for Leeds United
According to The Telegraph, Leeds United are interested in signing Brighton and Hove Albion starlet Haydon Roberts in the summer.
Roberts, 18, is a product of the Seagulls’ youth academy and made his professional debut for the South Coast club against Aston Villa last September in the EFL Cup. He also scored the only goal in the 3-1 loss to the Villans. However, his rise has been a rather swift one.
The teenager has been excellent for the reserves side this season and has his impressive performances have also attracted a lot of interest. Championship sides Brentford and Derby have also monitored Roberts, as per the report.
And Bundesliga sides RB Leipzig and Mains had sent scouts to watch to him earlier in the campaign. He has also been compared to his fellow club mate Ben White, who is currently on loan with Leeds United.
Roberts – A future leader in defence for Leeds United
Marcelo Bielsa’s men have been excellent throughout the campaign despite showing inconsistency on several occasions. The Whites, after failing to get promoted to the top-flight last season, are now on the verge of doing so.
One of the key positions Bielsa should focus on strengthening is the heart of the defence. Liam Cooper and Gaetano Berardi are the only two centre-backs available at the manager’s disposal, while Ben White is on loan from Brighton.
White could be on his way back to the AMEX Stadium once his contract expires at the end of the season. Apart from that, Berardi’s future still remains uncertain as his contract also comes to an end this month. And if the two of them leave, Cooper will be the only centre-back left. Thus, to avoid scarcity at the back, a central defender is a must.
In that regard, signing Roberts would also help them secure their backline for the future. The youngster has shown immense potential in the Premier League 2, featuring in 14 games for the U23 side. Despite being just 18, he has also impressed with the first-team, making swift developments.
He could be a useful addition to Bielsa’s squad next season in case two of the centre-backs leave. And under the guidance of the Argentine tactician, Roberts could definitely grow into a key player in the future.
Read more
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Verdict
With a lack of option at the back, it is clear that Leeds are in dire need of centre-backs. And signing Roberts would be a wise decision by the cub for the future. He could go on to represent them in the long run if he is able to develop himself and replicate the good form.
