Why Leeds United should plot a move for Aleksandar Mitrovic
According to Football Insider (h/t The Shields Gazette), Leeds United have been urged to sign Aleksandar Mitrovic by BBC Pundit Noel Whelan.
Mitrovic, 25, came through the ranks of Partizan Belgrade’s youth system in Serbia and moved to Anderlecht in 2013. After two years, Newcastle United signed him. However, he was sent on loan to Fulham after failing to hit top form at St. James’ Park.
In his loan spell with the Championship side, he was instrumental in Fulham’s promotion to the top flight and earned a permanent move. Last season, he scored 11 goals in the Premier League despite the club failing to secure Premier League status. Once again, he has been in fine form for the Cottagers this term.
Meanwhile, Leeds are facing a tough time amidst the league getting suspended as they hope for a promotion to the top-flight for the first time in 16 years. The Whites boss Marcelo Bielsa has managed to take his team atop the Championship table as they lead West Brom with one point.
They have been brilliant in their attacking unit, which consists of Patrick Bamford, Helder Costa and Jack Harrison. They have scored a total of 56 goals, which is impressive. And the backline, consisting of Ben White, Liam Cooper and Gaetano Berardi have held their ground strongly.
Leeds have conceded just 30 goals so far, which is the best defensive record in the Championship. Overall, with a high-level performance, the team has been excellent despite a slight dip in their form last month.
However, the manager should prioritize strengthening the attacking unit, where most of the in-form players are on loan, except for Bamford. Therefore, they need to bring in reinforcements to bolster the depth in the squad.
In that case, Fulham’s Aleksandar Mitrovic would be a good choice for the club as the Serbian is in the form of his life.
The 25-year-old has been consistent in the past three years and has given his best for the Cottagers. In 34 games so far, he has scored 23 goals and is the leading goalscorer in the second division in this campaign.
Leeds signed Jean-Kevin Augustin in January, but the Frenchman has failed to deliver and doesn’t seem to be at his best. And Tyler Roberts (21) is too young to be depended upon. Hence, the Whites should consider partnering Mitrovic with Bamford upfront.
The Serbian international has experience at a higher level and has also made 55 appearances for his country, leaving him with enough experience at the international level. He has been in devastating form for both club and country.
Read more
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Verdict
The Whites are in dire need of reinforcements upfront and Mitrovic is in the form of his life. Given his abilities, he would certainly add depth and quality to the squad and has a lot more to offer at a higher level.
Therefore, Leeds should take the advice of Whelan and make a move for the former Newcastle man in the summer.
