Why Bailey Peacock-Farrell must stay put at Leeds amidst interest from Wolves
According to a report by The Sun (print edition, page 60, June 10, 2018), newly-promoted outfit Wolverhampton Wanderers are interested in signing Leeds United goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell this summer.
The 21-year-old rose to the fore last season as he was one of the Whites’ brightest lights in an otherwise dismal campaign. Leeds started the season on a high but as days wore on, so did their performances. Paul Heckingbottom was appointed as the new manager in the latter half of the season but he was immediately sacked once the season came to an end.
Leeds finished 13th and the sense of frustration and anger among the supporters was quite apparent. They succeeded in appointing the dynamic Marcelo Bielsa as their new manager but right now, the club must focus towards building a strong team to ensure they secure a playoff spot at least.
However, as per reports, it looks like their young goalkeeper could be nearing an exit. Given the brand of football Wolves played last season, it would be tough for Peacock-Farrell to turn them down – even more so since they will play in the Premier League in the upcoming campaign.
Considering the situation, Peacock-Farrell would be better off if he just stayed back at Leeds. Wolves recently completed a sensational deal to sign Rui Patricio, who is a celebrated and experienced goalkeeper.
In addition to that, they also have John Ruddy on their books, who boasts of ample experience as well. Furthermore, Ruddy played a key role in their journey to the Premier League, meaning he will be an important aspect of their team in the near future as well.
Hence, Peacock-Farrell would have to act as the third-choice keeper, which will be a major step backwards for him. After his exploits last season, the youngster has grown and developed further as a player and to continue on this upward trajectory, he must continue playing for the first-team on a regular basis.
Moving to Wolves will make him a Premier League player but it does not make sense for him to forego regular game time.
Read More: Who’s this €5m-rated young star on Wolves’ radar? The next big Egyptian talent?
One might argue that Leeds have signed Jamal Blackman from Chelsea who will provide competition to Peacock-Farrell at Leeds. But it is better to compete with a goalkeeper with limited experience instead of playing as the third-choice keeper behind two highly-experienced and skilled shot-stoppers. Hence, Peacock-Farrell must stay back with Leeds.
