Leeds United could make a late move for Everton’s defender Mason Holgate in the final hours of the January transfer window, according to journalist Alex Crooks.
The Whites currently sit in fourth place in the EFL Championship standings with 57 points. Their forward line has been impressive, netting a sky-high 51 goals, while their defence line is equally formidable, conceding just 26 goals, the second lowest in the Championship this season.
They are now looking to further strengthen their backline by making reinforcements as they look to solidify their place in the play-off places while also pushing themselves up as they currently sit just two points behind second-placed Ipswich Town.
Despite Daniel Farke’s persistent efforts to bolster his squad during the winter transfer window, the Whites’ manager has yet to secure his first signing, even as the deadline approaches rapidly.
With time running out, the club remains on the lookout for potential additions to strengthen their backline with a move for Holgate on the cards.
“Mason Holgate is maybe one to still keep an eye on. I know he played for Southampton in the FA Cup last weekend, but he is not in their league team. I think he is one that could be let go and have his loan terminated if he gets the chance to go and play first-team football elsewhere,” said Crooks to GiveMeSport.
Will Leeds move for Holgate?
Holgate joined Southampton on loan from Everton but has since struggled, featuring in just seven appearances across all competitions for the Saints this season.
Along with Leeds, in-form Bundesliga side, Stuttgart are reported to have launched an approach for the 27-year-old where he’d spend the remaining season on loan with the Bundesliga outfit.
Russell Martin, Southampton’s head coach has affirmed that the decision regarding the potential recall of the former England under-21 international lies with Everton. Therefore, Leeds must concentrate solely on engaging in negotiations with the player’s parent club if they aim to finalize a last-minute deal.
Leeds have also expanded their defensive targets beyond Holgate. The Whites are also keen to sign Holgate’s teammate, Ben Godfrey on loan. This move comes after Godfrey’s intended £10million transfer to Serie A outfit Atalanta collapsed earlier this month.
With the final hours of deadline day looming, it remains to be seen which of the defenders Leeds will swoop for. The Whites are also in the hunt to sign Joe Worrall.
