Leeds United slammed for USA transfer ‘overkill’ with advanced talks underway for Weston McKennie
American pundit Alexi Lalas has suggested that Weston McKennie is better than Leeds United.
In Alexi Lalas’ State of the Union Podcast, David Mosse has accused the Whites of transfer “overkill” with multiple USA players being signed by the club under the leadership of 49-ers American owners.
Leeds are in “advanced talks” to sign McKennie from Juventus [90min]. The 24-year-old will become the third signing for the club if he joins.
Lalas, however, suggests that it’s a case of signing quality players and because they are Americans. However, he thinks McKennie, who was a regular at Juventus, is making a step backwards to join Leeds.
“The reaction among US fans appears to be mixed. When you’re starting every week at Juventus, whatever issues they’re having, it’s stull Juventus, when you’re linked with Arsenal and Liverpool and ends up with Leeds United, if feels like tad underwhelming,” said Mosse.
“Plus, Americans want to have different clubs they can follow through the prism of US players and this is turning out to be an overkill,” Mosse added.
“If there wasn’t an American owner at Leeds, would any of these coaches and players have a job there?,” asks Lalas.
“Marsch appointment was influenced by that. But all the other ones – Tyler Adams and Brendan Aaronson – I think any Premier League club would be interested in regardless. McKennie too,” responded Mosse.
“So then, why would it be overkill to have McKennie? I’ll take it, but as I said last week, I think Weston McKennie is better than Leeds,” said Lalas.
Superb signing
McKennie would be a great addition to the club. He is a technically gifted midfielder who would add depth and quality to the side.
Leeds didn’t plan to sign a midfielder in January, but the departure of Mateusz Klich forced them to delve into the market.
Tyler Adams and Marc Roca have forged a strong midfield partnership for the Whites, but more quality is needed in that department.
Adam Forshaw is still around but he is injury prone. He can still be a very good option for the club, but McKennie would be a terrific addition.
There will be competition for places in the side, and it will only improve the club in the long run.
It is definitely not “overkill” but there is strong American influence in the club. However, the likes of Adams, Aaronson and McKennie would get into any good side in the Premier League.
Is McKennie better than Leeds? No. That’s harsh to say. Leeds need more time to establish themselves as a powerhouse in the Premier League following their long absence.
They are one of the iconic clubs in Europe, and the signing of McKennie reflects the ambition of the club to get better.
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