Leeds United already looking to replace Gabriel Gudmundsson amid latest transfer update
Gabriel Gudmundsson’s starting spot at Leeds may be under threat next season.
The Swede has been an excellent addition to Leeds’ back line this season, having contributed at both ends of the pitch.
His ability and willingness to drive forward with the ball have been crucial to the Whites’ style of play, especially since Daniel Farke made the change to utilise a back five.
However, despite the importance he has shown this season, Leeds may already be looking to replace him, having been linked with a very similar player abroad.
Leeds United linked with Souffian El Karouani swoop
Souffian El Karouani has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs as a result of his form with Utrecht this season, and Leeds are among them to have shown a desire to bring him to England.
The left-back has amassed a remarkable 19 goal contributions from left-back this season, having been utilised in a very similar role to that of Gudmundsson at Elland Road.
And while it is important to note the gulf in quality between the Eredivisie and the Premier League, the difference between their stats is quite remarkable.
El Karouani has created a stunning 70 chances in the 23 appearances he has made in the league, compared to the 23 created by Gudmundsson.
The 25-year-old has completed 82 crosses this season with a 32.4 per cent accuracy, which is more than any other player in the Dutch top flight, which is again signficantly higher than Gudmundsson’s 21.
El Karouani averages 0.5 tackles per 90 more than the Swede, while also averaging 14 more recoveries per game.
Would Souffian El Karouani be an upgrade for Leeds?
Like many things, it will come down to how Farke plans to utilise his players next season.
If Leeds were to stick with their current style that utilises wing-backs, then there’s a case to be made that El Karouani would be more suitable given the threat he poses from wide areas.
The Whites have at times lacked creativity this season, and to have such a creative outlet in their backline would relieve the pressure on the forward players, while also affording them more space.
El Karouani’s contract at Utrecht is due to expire at the end of the current campaign, with it still not yet decided what the future has in store for him.
However, a move to the Premier League is said to be his desire.
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