According to The Sheffield Star, Leeds United are interested in signing John Swift from Reading.

The Lowdown: Leeds struggling

The Whites have not had a good start to the season in what is their second campaign back in the top flight following a 16-year absence.

As it stands, they are 17th in the table, having won just one of their first nine matches (Sky Sports). Up front, they have particularly struggled, scoring just eight times while the injury issues for Patrick Bamford have been a major setback.

The Latest: Leeds eye Swift

As per this latest report, the Whites are interested in signing Swift from Championship outfit Reading.

Brentford and Newcastle United are two other outfits also believed to be in pursuit of the 26-year-old.

The Verdict: The next step

After coming through the ranks at Chelsea, Swift has spent his career outside the Premier League - in fact, he has made just one appearance in the top flight (Transfermarkt).

Still, he has impressed for Reading during his time at the club, and is enjoying arguably the best campaign of his career to date. In 14 games in the second tier, he has managed eight goals and six assists, with Royals boss Veljko Paunovic calling him "super-talented".

Given his solid displays over the years, you would believe he has earned the chance to show of his quality against the elite. Valued at just £3.6m (Transfermarkt), he would hardly cost the Whites a fortune - it remains to be seen whether they make a concrete move for the midfielder.

In other news, this man has been suggested as an eventual Marcelo Bielsa replacement.