Leeds should swoop for Patrick van Aanholt with Crystal Palace talks at a standstill

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Leeds United’s start to life back in the Premier League has been interesting to say the least, with their eye-catching football impressing many.

Their gung-ho style of high-pressing, turning defence quickly into attack, and leaving open spaces at the back has ensured that the majority of their games have been quite the spectacle.

Leeds, of course, will feel they can do better. A 0-0 draw with Arsenal last time out probably could have ended with three points, while heavy losses to Leicester and Crystal Palace will be concerning for Marcelo Bielsa.

One of the issues Leeds have despite a talented squad is at left-back. Stuart Dallas has occupied that spot in the main, while Gjanni Alioski has also been converted by Bielsa into an attacking full-back.

But it remains a not idea scenario and an area to strengthen. And one man who could do that role comfortably for Leeds is current Crystal Palace star, Patrick van Aanholt.

Experience and for nothing

Van Aanholt is expected to leave Palace this summer after coming to an impasse on talks over a new deal. The Dutch international – he has nine caps for his country – has been a regular at Selhurst Park but has failed to sign as yet.

Leeds, then, could see this as the ideal chance to swoop for an attacking left-back who already knows the Premier League well.

The Dutchman has appeared 195 times in the top flight, per Transfermarkt. At 30, he is the right age to squeeze out a few more years at the very top while also being able to pass on his knowledge to some of Leeds’ young stars.

Bielsa has moved Dallas into midfield of late, prompting further discussion over the left-back role. Van Aanholt, then, on a free transfer, could prove a shrewd acquisition.

Naturally quick, capable of defending but with a natural inclination to get forward, the former Chelsea man might be just what Leeds are looking for come the summer.