Leeds United need to sign a new central midfielder before the summer transfer window closes next week, according to journalist Phil Hay.

The Lowdown: Low-key transfer window

Marcelo Bielsa hasn't been busy in the transfer market this summer, with the Whites having a low-key time of things, certainly compared to some other clubs.

Kristoffer Klaesson, Junior Firpo and Jack Harrison have all come in on permanent moves, but Leeds' squad hasn't changed much from last season.

Central midfield is an area which arguably looks light, however, with the likes of Nahitan Nandez and Lewis O'Brien both linked with moves to Elland Road.

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The Latest: Hay wants new midfielder

Speaking in a Q&A for The Athletic on Saturday, Hay claimed that he would like to see a midfielder being brought in over the final few days of the transfer window, seeing it as the key area in which to strengthen. He said:

"The rationale behind recruitment was that an expensive summer last year would mean they didn't need to go big this summer. I understand that - but I'd like to see a CM arrive (and I don't think a winger/forward would be a bad idea either because Costa hasn't been firing at all).

"Bielsa likes a small squad but there are little gaps in it. We can all see that."

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The Verdict: Too much onus on Phillips

Hay is spot-on in his assessment, with Leeds too reliant on the brilliance of Kalvin Phillips in the middle of the park, as highlighted by his absence in the 5-1 drubbing by Manchester United.

While there are still good players in that position, there is a lack of top-quality depth, and a signing of Nandez's pedigree - he has won 41 caps for Uruguay - could take the Whites up another level.

An injury to Phillips could leave Leeds looking horribly light in the middle of the park, potentially stunting the progress they have made during Bielsa's time in charge at Elland Road.

In other news, Hay has also given an update on Leeds' attempts to sign one player this summer. Find out who it is here.