Francis Coquelin heads for Leeds United trial as yet another free agent arrives at Thorp Arch
Leeds United have invited Francis Coquelin for a trial at Thorp Arch, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Daniel Farke is eager to recruit reinforcements in midfield and after MOT Leeds News learned a move for Cheikhou Kouyate collapsed due to a failed medical, the German has since moved for the former Arsenal midfielder.
Romano confirmed via his Daily Briefing [18 October] that Coquelin has received an invitation for a trial at Thorp Park with the hopes he can be the stop-gap option for central midfield.
The Whites are suffering an injury crisis at Elland Road with only Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell available as senior midfield options, Farke is wasting no time utilising the free agent market to provide much-needed squad depth.
Leeds United must move quick to secure Francis Coquelin
After the Kouyate debacle, Leeds has no more time to waste if another midfielder is on the agenda with Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev facing extended spells on the sidelines.
Tanaka and Rothwell proved in the 2-2 draw against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, the pair are more than capable of filling the void for the time being, that being said, an injury to either man would leave Farke scrambling for options in midfield.
It seems the sentiment is not lost on the Whites boss, after a day since Graham Smyth reported a deal for Coquelin is not imminent, the 33-year-old has been invited to show what he can offer the side before a decision is made on his acquisition.
Leeds supporters will be relieved to hear attacking duo Dan James and Manor Solomon have returned to training ahead of the clash against Sheffield United on Friday [18 October], however, if the side is to mount an ascent up the Championship table, a move for Coquelin could represent smart business.
The 2020/21 Europa League winner has a wealth of European experience from his recent spell with Villareal, Premier League experience from his stint at Arsenal, and even EFL experience albeit, five matches from a loan spell at Charlton Athletic.
Kouyate failing his medical could prove to be a blessing in disguise for Leeds – Coquelin is one year his junior at 33, and his credentials blow the Senegalese international out of the water. This is a deal Farke must wrap up now.
In other Leeds United news, Don Goodman cannot believe what he’s heard about Whites ace Junior Firpo.
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