AliousLEEDS EYEING PREMIER LEAGUE VETERAN TO SOLVE MIDFIELD CRISIS!
Leeds United are reportedly considering a move for experienced midfielder Cheikhou Kouyaté to address their sudden depth issues in the middle of the park. This development comes in the wake of injuries to key players Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev, as reported by Graham Smyth of the Yorkshire Evening Post.
Kouyaté, a free agent since parting ways with Nottingham Forest last summer, boasts an impressive resume. The Senegalese international, with 92 caps to his name, has amassed 291 Premier League appearances during his stints with West Ham United, Crystal Palace, and Nottingham Forest. At 34, he brings a wealth of experience, including four Belgian league titles and an African Cup of Nations victory with Senegal.
However, Kouyaté’s recent playing time has been limited. In his final season with Forest, he started only two games and made 10 substitute appearances, totaling just 208 minutes as the club narrowly avoided relegation.
Journalist Ben Jacobs reported on Friday that Leeds are exploring the possibility of signing Kouyaté on a free transfer. Discussions have revolved around a short-term contract until the end of the season, with Leeds expected to make a final decision soon. Despite rumors of a medical examination, Leeds Live, citing sources, clarified on Saturday that no deal has been struck, nor is it at an advanced stage.
Leeds’ interest in Kouyaté stems from their current midfield crisis. Ampadu is sidelined for the remainder of 2024 with a lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injury, while Gruev faces months out and requires surgery on his meniscus. These injuries have left Leeds with limited options in midfield, with Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell providing some experience, but the backup options are either makeshift or unproven.
The potential signing of Kouyaté would bring much-needed depth and Premier League experience to Leeds’ midfield. However, the club is likely carefully considering his fitness levels, given that he hasn’t played more than 1,000 minutes of league football since the 2021-22 season.
As Leeds navigate this injury crisis, the decision on whether to sign Kouyaté could prove crucial in maintaining their competitive edge in the Championship. Fans eagerly await the club’s final verdict on this potential short-term solution to their midfield woes.
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