Jesse Marsch could go back to his roots in a bid to bolster Leeds United‘s playing squad this summer…
What’s the word?
According to Transfermarkt, the Whites are interested in signing Philadelphia Union left-back Kai Wagner, who has emerged as one of the best in his position in the MLS
It remains to be seen how much the 25-year-old German would command, though the Yorkshire giants are also facing competition from relegation rivals Burnley, as well as Championship outfit Middlesbrough.
Transfermarkt value him at £2.7m.
Firpo flop
Part of the MLS All-Star team in 2021, the 6-foot dynamo could be quite an upgrade for the American head coach at Elland Road.
Across 104 appearances in Delaware, Wagner has delivered four goals and 13 assists, averaging a direct contribution once every six games, which is a pretty respectable return for a full-back.
Meanwhile, the former Wurzburger Kickers ace ranks favourably compared to his peers in the division. He is amongst the top 3% for key passes (1.88 per 90), top 4% for passes into the final third (4.35 per 90) and top 4% for goal-creating actions, so whilst he may not always get an assist, he’s evidently a threat in attack.
Should Leeds swoop for Kai Wagner
Also via FBRef, Wagner is pretty solid defensively, having averaged 2.43 blocks and 9.61 ball recoveries per 90, too.
His arrival in west Yorkshire could finally allow Marsch to axe struggling first-choice Junior Firpo, who has often looked lost down that left flank for the Premier League strugglers this campaign.
The former FC Barcelona man ranks outside the top 11 of Leeds’ best performers and has often been criticised for his inconsistent performances.
During a thrashing by Manchester City, Firpo’s defending was described as “schoolboy” by ex-goalkeeper Paul Robinson, whilst the Mirror’s David Anderson dubbed the £10.8m-rated flop a “liability” to GIVEMESPORT recently.
Instead, Wagner – who has been described as a “fighter” by ex-Union defender and mentor Aurelien Collin – could be an instant upgrade on the 25-year-old.
Victor Orta and co must look to make this move.
AND in other news, Radz set for Leeds disaster on £18m-rated “machine”, it’d be an unforgivable decision…
