Daniel Farke has expressed the need for defensive reinforcements at Leeds United as the club looks to strengthen its squad during the January transfer window. A potential target for the Whites was Union Berlin defender Danilho Doekhi, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the season. However, a new name has now emerged on the scene, with Mark McKenzie of Toulouse suddenly becoming a subject of interest for Leeds.
Following the sale of Charlie Cresswell to Toulouse, Leeds could be poised to engage in further business with the French club. McKenzie, a 26-year-old American international, is reportedly on the radar of Leeds, with a transfer fee of £5 million being speculated. The defender’s experience and potential appeal in the Premier League, especially with a home World Cup on the horizon, make him an enticing prospect for the Whites.
Leeds had previously expressed interest in McKenzie during his time at Genk in Belgium, and it seems that they are revisiting the possibility of bringing him to Elland Road. The recent FA Cup victory over Derby raised concerns about the makeshift defense deployed by Farke, highlighting the need for reinforcement in that area. While defenders like Sebastiaan Bornauw have faced scrutiny, a move away for him may not be feasible given the current lack of depth in central defense.
McKenzie’s potential arrival would provide valuable depth to Leeds’ defensive ranks, offering Farke more options and flexibility in his lineup. The relatively modest transfer fee for McKenzie adds to the appeal of the deal, considering his international pedigree and potential impact at the club.
The decision to sell Cresswell in the past may have raised eyebrows initially, but unforeseen tactical adjustments and the evolving needs of the team can lead to such decisions. As a Leeds fan himself, Cresswell could play a role in convincing McKenzie of the club’s stature and potential, potentially facilitating a smooth transfer process.
Overall, the pursuit of McKenzie reflects Leeds United’s ambitions to bolster their squad and address areas of concern, with the hope of strengthening their position in the Premier League and beyond. The potential acquisition of McKenzie could signal a step in the right direction for the Whites as they seek to reinforce their defensive ranks and enhance their competitiveness in the top flight.
