Leeds United are interested in signing Blackburn Rovers centre-back Darragh Lenihan, according to a fresh transfer rumour which emerged on Thursday.
The Lowdown: Lenihan shines for Blackburn
Tony Mowbray's side are enjoying an excellent season currently, sitting second in the Championship and looking strong to seal promotion to the Premier League.
Lenihan has been an undisputed key man for Blackburn, starting 26 of 28 league games at the heart of the defence and being hailed as 'special' by his manager.
The captain's performances appear to have alerted a host of clubs, however, with a potential move to the top flight now on the cards.
[freshpress-quiz id=“383507"]
The Latest: Leeds in the mix
According to a report from TEAMtalk (27/01/22), Leeds are one of numerous Premier League teams eyeing up a move for Lenihan, with Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Wolves and Everton also mentioned.
The 27-year-old's current Blackburn deal expires at the end of the season, meaning the Whites could snap him up on a free transfer if he doesn't extend his stay at Ewood Park.
Promotion could be a determining factor in convincing the Republic of Ireland international to stay put.
[web_stories_embed url="https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/latest-leeds-united-news-33/" title="Latest Leeds United news!" poster="" width="360" height="600" align="none"]
The Verdict: Good squad acquisition
While the step up to the Premier League from the Championship is admittedly great, Lenihan's performances this season suggest he could be a shrewd signing by Leeds.
The Irishman has won an impressive average of 5.1 aerial duels per match in the league this season, not to mention 4.9 clearances each game too.
To put that into context, Liam Cooper leads the way for the Whites in aerial duels with 3.6, highlighting the Blackburn skipper's prowess in both boxes, while no Leeds player with more than one appearance boasts more clearances than Lenihan.
The fact that he would be available on a free takes out the financial risk element, too, so there is a little about the move that feels negative.
In other news, Leeds are reportedly considering another bid for one player. Find out who it is here.