Leeds United are looking to add Premier League experience to their defensive line with the signing of Rob Holding, according to Kieran Lynch of Mail online and Sky Sports. The 24-year-old made eight appearances in the Premier League last season with seven of those coming post-lockdown.
Holding is not part of Mikel Arteta’s plans for the 2020/21 campaign and has reportedly been placed on the transfer list. The defender is one of a reported 15 players that have been transfer-listed this window as Arteta looks to generate funds for his incoming activities.
Leeds United interested in Signing Arsenal’s Rob Holding
Swift Deal for Rob Holding Will Benefit Both Clubs
The Whites have emerged as front-runners for the defender’s signature and will look to finalise a deal swiftly. This is because a number of the club’s targets have been hijacked by higher-level opposition so far in this window.
Arteta, who seemingly deems Holding ‘surplus to requirements,’ will also like to get the deal done quickly. This will give the Arsenal boss additional time to worry about his incoming business.
Leeds Are in Need of a Centre-Back
Since Ben White returned to Brighton, Leeds United have been doing everything in their power to sign the defender. However, speculation around Holding seems to mean that the chase for White could be over.
The Whites are in a position where an experienced Premier League centre-back will be top of their priority list. With last season’s third choice Gaetano Berardi still injured, Leeds will be looking to the inexperienced Pascal Struiijk for defensive cover.
Holding Has Experience Despite Age
Rob Holding has made 45 Premier League appearances since his debut in 2016. Although he has never been a frequent starter, he has been patient in the hopes of gaining regular game-time.
A move away from the Emirates could be what Holding needs. It is likely that the defender would play an integral part at Leeds and it would be a great opportunity to get more minutes on the pitch if a deal is completed this summer.
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