Ian Wright has tipped Leeds United midfielder Ao Tanaka to shine in the Premier League next season. The Japan international was one of the standout performers in the Championship, playing an instrumental role in the Whites' title success.
Tanaka weighed in with five goals and two assists from 43 league outings to help United finish top of the pile with 100 points. His energetic performances and eye for a pass in the midfield engine room saw Tanaka earn cult status among the Whites fan-base.
Speaking on the Kelly and Wrighty Show, Arsenal legend Wright was asked which player he is most excited to watch next term. The former England international replied: “He’s not even a kid, but I’m going to go with Ao Tanaka at Leeds. Their number six, if he plays how he’s played this season for Leeds in the Premier League, he won’t be there long. I’m not trying to get him sold, he’s fantastic, he’s one to look out for, Ao Tanaka."
United are two players down in the midfield department, with Josuha Guilavogui set to be released at the end of June and Joe Rothwell back at Bournemouth following his successful loan spell. Tanaka, Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev are currently the senior options manager Daniel Farke as at his disposal.
It is a position the Whites are expected to address when the summer transfer window opens this week. Because of FIFA's Club World Cup taking place next month, a secondary transfer window is opening to allow clubs the opportunity sign players before the tournament begins. It means clubs can complete deals between June 1 and June 10 before it opens fully again on June 16. The window runs until September 1.
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