Three World Cup options to replace Pascal Struijk at Leeds United | OneFootball

Pascal Struijk’s £20m departure leaves Leeds United needing a new left-sided defender, particularly if Daniel Farke persists with a back three. According to Leedsunited.news, Joe Rodon and Jaka Bijol are both right-footed, so balance is required.

Here are three left-footed centre-backs at the World Cup whose profiles mirror Struijk’s and who could be attainable in the coming weeks.

Jhon Lucumi, Bologna and Colombia, has quietly excelled, playing every minute as Colombia reached the last 16. The 41-cap defender has been central to three clean sheets with only one goal conceded. Previously considered by Leeds, he is into the final 12 months of his contract and could be available.

Arthur Theate, Frankfurt and Belgium, has been an ever-present despite Belgium’s leakier back line, and they are also in the last 16. After two strong seasons alongside Robin Koch and Rasmus Kristensen, and with Frankfurt set for change, he might be a candidate. A 26-year-old ball-playing left-footer, he is very similar to Struijk but likely to be pricey.

Facundo Medina, Marseille and Argentina, missed 2022 but is now the first-choice left-back, starting three games for over 80 minutes each. Rested for the third group match like Lionel Messi, he returned for the Cape Verde knockout tie. Aggressive and composed on the ball, he has an assist at this World Cup, and L’Equipe reports Marseille are open to a sale.

Source: Leedsunited.news