Reliable Leeds United correspondent Phil Hay has answered a question on whether or not the Whites should spend £10m on Reading midfielder John Swift in January.  

The Lowdown: Orta considering bid?

Swift has been in fine form in the Championship this season, scoring eight goals and registering nine assists in 20 second-tier fixtures.

His contract with the Royals is set to expire at the end of the season, which has led to rumours of a cut-price departure in the New Year.

The 26-year-old, described as a ‘grafter’ by Leeds YouTuber Conor McGilligan, is thought to be on Victor Orta’s radar ahead of January, with the Whites, along with Burnley and Wolves, considering bids.

The Latest: Hay’s comments

Hay ran a Q&A on The Athletic prior to Leeds’ 0-0 draw with Brighton on Saturday.

He was asked by one fan if Leeds should spend £10m on a player like Swift, who Bielsa called ‘great’ back in 2020. This is what he had to say in reply:

“Bielsa has liked Swift for a while. It’s a difficult question because deep down you question whether Swift improves Leeds long term but they’re not going to be able to spend big next month and maybe some pragmatism is a good idea. Tough call. But they can’t afford to get caught short this season.”

The Verdict: Make a bid

Leeds are fairly short of senior midfield options at this moment in time, having just four on the books in a defensive, central or attacking role.

On that basis, bringing in a player like Swift who has been in fine form this season could give everyone at Elland Road the boost that is needed for the second half of the season and beyond.

A figure in the region of £10m could also be enough due to his contract situation and £5.4m Transfermarkt valuation. He appears to be at the top of his game and is capable of playing anywhere in midfield, so no wonder he’s a player who Bielsa values, and a bid should therefore be made.

In other news: Possession lost 48 times, 22 duels lost, 1 key pass: Leeds' 3 worst players vs Brighton.