Bielsa spotted with scout report of 20-year-old German league ace – Should Leeds make a move?

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Why Leeds United should continue their pursuit of Finn Ole Becker

According to Leeds Live, Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa was spotted with a scouting report of St. Pauli midfielder Finn Ole Becker this week.

The 20-year-old Becker currently plays in the German second division and has had a breakthrough campaign this season with 28 appearances to his name. In total, he has played 34 times for St. Pauli, whom he joined way back in 2011.

Finn Ole Becker of St Pauli in action against FC Nuernberg in the German second division in October last year. (
Finn Ole Becker of St Pauli in action against FC Nuernberg in the German second division in October last year. (Getty Images)

Mostly deployed through the centre, young Becker’s versatility allows him to play as a holding midfielder, which he has done so numerous times this season.

Becker can offer Leeds more strength in midfield

Leeds United under Bielsa emerged as Championship winners this season which will see them feature in the top-flight next season. Despite his team’s recent success, Bielsa needs to bring in reinforcements in order to stay in the Premier League in the long run.

That said, he has identified young Becker as a suitable candidate following his eye-catching displays in Germany this season. With as many as 10 midfielders already in their ranks, it seems hugely unlikely that Becker would be a regular starter at Elland Road if a move happens in the summer.

Manager Marcelo Bielsa has helped Leeds United earn Premier League promotion after a long gap of 16 years.
Manager Marcelo Bielsa has helped Leeds United earn Premier League promotion after a long gap of 16 years. (Getty Images)

However, Leeds just have one established defensive midfielder in Kalvin Phillips and Becker’s arrival will offer the Argentine boss an extra option next season. Apart from this, Leeds have also struggled with the injury of midfielder Adam Forshaw, who has spent most of his time this season warming the benches.

There also remains the growing age concern of their main man in the middle – Mateusz Klich. The Pole has been one of the regular faces in the Leeds line-up under Bielsa, making 45 league appearances this term.

However, he is already past his thirty now and Leeds could do with some young and new faces such as Becker in their squad. The rest of the midfielders in the side are either inexperienced or yet to impress Bielsa.

Leeds United midfielder Mateusz Klich turned 30 this year.
Leeds United midfielder Mateusz Klich turned 30 this year. (Getty Images)

Considering all this, a move for rising talent such as Becker seems like a step in the right direction and Leeds must make sure they land him.

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Verdict

Despite enough depth in their midfield department, it is clear that Leeds lack established midfielders in their side. Becker is just 20 and could develop his game under the guidance of Bielsa.