Leeds United transfer news: Ryan Manning has eyes set on Elland Road switch amid Swansea exit
Swansea City defender Ryan Manning has his eye on a move to Leeds United but is yet to agree on any terms of a transfer, according to the Swansea Independent.
The Republic of Ireland international recently won the Player of the Year award with the Swans but is set to leave the Welsh club this summer when his contract expires.
Left-back proved an issue for the Whites last season, with Junior Firpo and Pascal Struijk both struggling to nail down the position in a defence that shipped 78 goals.
The Swansea Independent wrote (31 May): “Manning has his eyes on a potential move to Leeds United but has yet to agree any terms and has his sights on the premier league.
“Both [Manning and Joel Latibeaudiere] are in a strong position and will move in the next few weeks.
“Up front they will cost nothing bar big signing-on fees.”
Problem area
Leeds have struggled to find an out-and-out left-back over the last couple of transfer windows, with Max Wober mainly used in the heart of defence since his January switch and Struijk currently in a terrible run of form.
The need for further options at left-back is desperately needed and the fact that they could snap up Manning on a free transfer should appeal to the club.
The 26-year-old has a wealth of Championship experience through separate spells at QPR, Rotherham United and Swansea and looks like a great option to pursue.
The major problem now is that the Whites can’t offer Premier League football – something which might affect Manning’s final transfer decision.
Also, the uncertainty surrounding the vacant managerial position, lack of a sporting director and takeover with the 49ers Enterprises may mean that Leeds can’t act on any transfers straight away.
This could put Leeds on the back foot in their pursuit of Manning and lead to them being beaten to the punch.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites want to sign one 13-goal forward this summer after an impressive European season.