By Mark Smith

27th Oct, 2019 | 12:06pm

Report: PL club to challenge Leeds for Chelsea starlet

Making smart additions in the January transfer market can be the difference between promotion and the play-offs. Leeds learnt that the hard way last season.

Kiko Casilla was the only signing completed by the Whites, who agonisingly missed out on Daniel James on deadline day. Sorry for that reminder.

We are sitting nicely in the Championship at this stage. Marcelo Bielsa’s men are third as it stands, but could and probably should be much higher.

Phil Hay recently suggested that Leeds were interested in Chelsea youngster Reece James if they were able to secure promotion.

The Sun have reported that Newcastle United are set to challenge Leeds for the 19-year-old. Steve Bruce is suggested to be a huge fan of the defender.

They claim that Bielsa still remains a big admirer of the starlet. The Argentine would surely be tempted to make a move in January should we be in-and-around the promotion picture.

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With Bruce and Newcastle interested, it could be an uphill battle to do just that. The Magpies have the advantage of Premier League football to offer James this season.

The 19-year-old can play at right-back and in the heart of midfield. He would offer great versatility – something which could be key, with the likes of Adam Forshaw struggling with injury.

We can’t afford to sit back and allow any of our potential targets pass by in January this season. Victor Orta and his team will need to get busy and quickly so he can add the required strength in depth.

In other Leeds news, Report: PL club plot move for Leeds star as scouting missions revealed