Reading midfielder John Swift may not be good enough to make the grade at Leeds United, according to former Whites defender Danny Mills.

The Lowdown: Swift tipped to join Leeds

The 26-year-old has arguably been one of the Championship's standout players so far this season, shining in the middle of the park for Reading.

Swift has scored eight goals and registered seven assists in 17 league appearances, and was even hailed as a 'great player' by Marcelo Bielsa in the past.

The midfielder has been linked with a move to Leeds a number of times, with a January switch mooted.

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The Latest: Mills unsure after update from source

Despite Swift's impressive numbers this season, someone who isn't convinced he is good enough for the Whites is Mills.

Speaking to Football Insider after a Thorp Arch source confirmed interest in a January move, the former Leeds and England man admitted he has doubts:

"Are Reading going to want to sell? They’re going to think they need every player possible to get out of the situation they are in.

"Also, is he better than what Leeds have got? Is he better than Bamford, who we expect to come back to fitness soon? Is he better than Rodrigo? There are doubts.

"Will he be able to do it immediately in the Premier League? We know it takes them months to get up to speed under Bielsa so you’d be looking at the end of January if you buy him at the beginning.

"January transfers are not really something I expect Marcelo Bielsa to do too much. When he’s done it in the past, even with loan deals, it hasn’t really worked out.

"Reading are going to want big money as well. You’re looking at big money for a squad player. Is that really worth it? I’m not convinced it would be."

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The Verdict: Key for squad depth

While Swift may not necessarily be at the level required to be the first name on the teamsheet - he has only played one minute of Premier League football in his career -  improved squad depth should never be sniffed at and he could offer that.

The fact that Bielsa is an admirer also speaks volumes about the Englishman's ability and he could find an extra gear working alongside the Argentine, not to mention playing with someone like Kalvin Phillips in midfield.

It isn't a move that would be earth-shattering, but over time, it could prove to be a shrewd piece of business, with Swift offering more guile and end product from the centre of the park.

In other news, Leeds are reportedly preparing a move for one player. Find out who it is here.