Southampton ‘set for summer rebuild’ after Leeds transfer news
Leeds United did not need Cameron Archer in the transfer window as he would not have got into their starting XI, according to Ian Darke.
The TV commentator, speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, has argued Archer’s role would have represented cover for Joel Piroe, who has now hit 12 Championship goals this season in 20 starts.
Daniel Farke chased Archer as a priority signing but to no avail with Southampton unwilling to accommodate a loan, having lent Adam Armstrong to West Bromwich Albion on Deadline Day (3 February).
Some supporters are left frustrated by the fact their club have not brought in a single winter signing during the 34-day transfer market.
“I think Leeds are just going along swimmingly as they are. A bit of extra cover in case someone like Piroe got injured would’ve come in handy, but they’re fine with what they’ve got,” Darke said.
“Southampton will likely need to rebuild in the Championship next year, but Archer hasn’t played too much under Ivan Juric.
“I don’t think he gets into Leeds’ team as a starter – it’s a hard team to get into.”
Leeds United have been prolific and show no sign of stopping
There is no doubting Archer’s quality, with the striker having shown his ability in struggling sides such as Southampton and last year’s Sheffield United.
It would have been exciting to see what he is capable of in a team dominating most weeks, but Farke simply did not need him to supplement the attacking weaponry he has.
It could have seen square pegs placed in round holes if he was tempted to shoehorn in the mooted new signing. There had been times earlier this season where Piroe was shunted out wide to put three-goal Mateo Joseph through the middle.
Joseph was himself the subject of intense interest with Real Betis submitting a late bid which was swiftly rejected at Elland Road. He is learning on the job in the Championship and will benefit far more at present staying where he is with a manager who backs him.
Beyond those players is Patrick Bamford, whom Farke reminded everyone he valued following the closure of the window. It remains to be seen what part he plays, if any, in what’s left of the promotion push.
In other Leeds news, Dan Plumley explains how the Whites could benefit financially from a new broadcast deal.
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