Marcelo Bielsa opens door to potential Leeds United signings in January window

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Marcelo Bielsa has told Thursday’s press conference ahead of this weekend’s clash against Chelsea that Leeds United could make signings in the January window – which will excite, and reassure Leeds fans.

Leeds go into Saturday’s clash at Stamford Bridge with numerous injury concerns. Patrick Bamford, Liam Cooper and Kalvin Phillips all picked up problems after the 2-2 draw with Brentford last Sunday.

They join Robin Koch on the sidelines. With the aforementioned trio all struggling with hamstring injuries, they could be on the sidelines for some time. Many fans are calling for new signings next month.

The Whites could do with a midfielder at least, given Adam Forshaw has only just returned after two years on the sidelines and Mateusz Klich is struggling for consistency. Bielsa responded, when asked about January.

“With respect to signings: like I always say, any player the club is in conditions to sign better than what we have, it would be welcome, but we all know the difficulties of the winter market,” Bielsa said.

“It’s difficult to find players that are competing, that don’t have a place in the team they’re in. Normally those competing have a space within their team. It is not simple.”

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He probably needs to. The issue with making signings to replace injured players, is that when the injured players return – your squad is then bloated. But Leeds needed additions anyway.

The lack of depth is something Bielsa has always preferred. If he needed replacements, he would delve into the club’s Under-23 side. This season, Joe Gelhardt, Charlie Cresswell and Cody Drameh have been used.

Another option in midfield, perhaps a more-attacking player or a box-to-box midfielder would be ideal. Leeds do not need cover at centre-back, but they could do with another forward. Will Leeds buy? It remains to be seen.