Why Leeds United should make a move for John Swift
According to the Daily Mail, Leeds United are interested in signing Reading midfielder John Swift in the summer.
Swift, 25, came through the ranks of Chelsea’s youth system. However, after failing to break into the Blues’ first-team squad, he was sent on several loan spells. He featured for clubs like Rotherham, Swindon and Brentford before joining Reading in the summer of 2016 on a free transfer.
He has represented England from U16 to U21 levels. However, he has been the star performer for Reading this season and has also attracted interest from Sheffield United, as per the report. Swift has just two years left on his contract at Madejski Stadium and the Royals could sell him due to financial constraints. Thus, Leeds should make a move for the midfielder at the earliest.
As Leeds are close to earning promotion to the top-flight, the manager should look to bring in reinforcements to the squad. Most of the main players in the squad are on loan and to survive in the Premier League, multiple positions need to be strengthened.
Swift could a replacement for Pablo Hernandez in midfield
One key area that the manager should focus on strengthening is the midfield. Adam Forshaw, Mateusz Klich, Jamie Shackleton and Pablo Hernandez are the four attack-minded midfielders available at the manager’s disposal.
However, Hernandez is the one who plays in an advanced position and is Leeds’ creative head. The Spaniard has been brilliant through the campaign, racking up 6 goals and assists each, leading the midfield by example. But he is already 35 and they don’t have any other attacking midfielders in their ranks. Thus, the Whites need to sign a creative player in the summer.
In that regard, signing Swift would be a good move by the club. A central midfielder by trade, the former Chelsea man has played mainly as an attacking midfielder throughout the campaign. In 35 league games, he has chalked up 5 goals and 10 assists this season and is one of Reading’s key figures.
Given his recent successful form, Swift could be a perfect replacement for Hernandez in the squad. He could be a valuable addition to Bielsa’s squad if he is able to replicate the same form. He is just 25 and could become a better player under the guidance of the Argentine tactician.
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Verdict
With Hernandez reaching the twilight of his career, it is time for Leeds to bring in a player for the future. And Swift could get some extra goals, whilst also adding depth to the squad. Thus, Leeds should secure his services for next season.