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Pundit suggests interesting role for exciting Leeds United transfer target

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Image for Pundit suggests interesting role for exciting Leeds United transfer target

Former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan believes that reported summer transfer target Bright Osayi-Samuel could be converted from a winger to a wing-back to suit Marcelo Bielsa’s system more.

The Whites have been in tremendous form under Bielsa this season and we have seen a gradual change from a 4-1-4-1 formation towards a more fluid and familiar 3-3-1-3 setup which he has deployed in most of his other roles.

With a three-at-the-back setup, Bielsa’s full-backs work in tandem with the wingers to create a regular supply of crosses and other chances into the penalty area.

While Stuart Dallas has been featuring on the left-side very impressively, Jack Harrison’s unique role on that flank has been something to marvel. WIth Dallas often man-marking and moving across the pitch, Harrison has to take up the entire left-side of the pitchon his own, which he has done marvelously in games such as the 4-0 win away at Hull City and the 1-0 win away to Reading.

Harrison certainly looks like he can fit the bill long-term for the Whites but more depth will be needed if promotion is sealed, and Football Insider have reported that Leeds are interested in QPR winger Bright Osayi-Samuel.

The R’s livewire has been one of the standout performers at Loftus Road this season and it’s no surprise that he’s been gathering interest from the top end of the Championship.

Speaking to Football Insider, former Leeds man Noel Whelan believes that Osayi-Samuel could be converted into a similar wing-back role to help him push for a starting berth at Elland Road. He stated: “I saw him play a couple of times and his progression has been very good.

“He has loads of pace and there is a fantastic winger there but I am not so sure we need more wingers. At the right price possibly.

“He could play that wing-back role as well and Leeds will look at that because Marcelo Bielsa likes players that can play multiple positions. He has the athleticism to play that right wing-back role. He is really quick and has pace to burn.

“They rate him very highly at QPR and he was finishing the season strongly.”

A move to Elland Road could prove prosperous for the winger who is clearly on the way up the footballing ladder after his efforts this season and adding another string to his bow could only improve his prospects.

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Leeds United season ticket holder since 2013/14, currently situated in the middle of the FA5 noise. From Pablo Hernandez to 5-1 drubbings, I've seen it all at Elland Road.