Leeds United signings now expected after unplanned Luke Ayling, Djed Spence, Charlie Cresswell developments – Phil Hay

According to Phil Hay, Leeds United is now anticipated to make defense-related additions prior to the deadline because the circumstances that led to the decrease in personnel were not anticipated.

Speaking on the Square Ball on January 15, the Athletic journalist stated that even two weeks prior, it would have been expected that Luke Ayling, who has joined Middlesbrough on a loan that will see out his Elland Road contract, and Djed Spence, whose loan was terminated and is currently on loan at Genoa from Tottenham, would stay this month.

Hay has prioritized right-back above left-back in the current transfer window, and a new center-back acquisition is also expected given the breakdown between Daniel Farke and Charlie Cresswell, which he expects to result in the defender’s departure.

Regarding the 22-million dollar newcomers, Hay stated: “It would surprise me greatly if they don’t, and considering Cresswell’s current circumstances, I see no other option than to find another center-back, or to find someone that fills that gap, whether it be a full-back who can play center-back.

“Farke is determined to have four center backs in the lineup, so if Cresswell isn’t playing, it opens up a spot for another, and it was never the intention for Spence and Ayling to start at right back this month.

“A few weeks ago, one would have thought that both would have remained, but events have had other plans. As a result, you almost feel as though right-back has taken on equal importance to left-back as a result of the events of the last two days.

“However, it appears pretty clear to me where the primary emphasis should be, and while I can definitely see potential and merit in looking in the attacking midfield area, another 10, strengthening at the back is the most sensible thing to do, if Leeds are to do anything.”

A long time coming

It doesn’t seem very smart to get rid of your current options before you’ve scheduled replacements during the famously difficult January window.

It is one thing to have several months to rebuild in the summer, but things have taken a turn for the worst for Leeds United when it appeared going into the midseason transfer window that one left-back might be all the team needed to bolster an already strong roster.

The decision over whether or not Spence’s presence was ultimately more detrimental than beneficial rests with Farke, and Ayling had every right to leave after years of service if he wasn’t getting a game. However, the standoff with Cresswell seemed a little harsh and needless for both sides.

The manager’s options have been further limited by injuries at the back, and his defensive rotation already includes several players who are stepping in out of position, so things are far from comfortable.

While Ethan Ampadu is more than comfortable playing center back, he has already shown that he is a remarkable midfield player. Archie Gray and Jamie Shackleton are midfielders who double as full-backs. Sam Byram is a right-back who has been a regular on the left.

It’s not easy to recruit players in the middle of the season when you’re scrambling, but Farke will have to hope that with half the window already gone, acceptable individuals can be located in time.