Leeds have got to consider West Ham star that Sam Allardyce reportedly wants – TBR View

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Sam Allardyce is reportedly planning to raid his former West Ham United side to solve his defensive issues at West Bromwich Albion but with Liam Cooper now potentially injured, Leeds United simply have to elbow Allardyce aside.

Cooper hobbled off the Old Trafford pitch on Sunday during a 6-2 defeat to Man United, in which the Leeds skipper scored. He joins already-injured defenders Robin Koch and Diego Llorente on the treatment table, with Leeds lacking at centre-back.

Leeds need a defender in January, especially if Cooper is sidelined for more than just a week or two. Meanwhile, newly-appointed Allardyce is keen to sign out-of-favour West Ham defender Issa Diop in the January window.

That is according to The Sun on Sunday (20/12; page 65), who claim that former England boss Allardyce wants Diop – who has been afforded just four Premier League appearances this season. He has fallen down the pecking order at West Ham.

Indeed, David Moyes prefers Fabian Balbuena and summer signing Craig Dawson as options alongside Angelo Ogbonna. It means six-time France Under-21 cap Diop could leave in January, despite the Telegraph claiming he was bought for £22million.

So, should Leeds consider a move for Diop? Well given he boasts speed, strength, aerial ability, quality on the deck and Premier League experience – 69 top-flight appearances to be exact – Diop would be a good signing for a good handful of teams.

But Leeds are desperate for a centre-back and if Diop is available on loan, then it is an absolute no-brainer. Would West Ham want to aid a direct rival in Leeds or West Brom by loaning them Diop? Probably not, but it may depend on a loan fee.

If Leeds can convince West Ham to let them have Diop, then they simply have to complete a deal.