Leeds United are interested in a number of versatile full-back options, including Leicester City’s James Justin.
Isaac Schmidt has a loan offer from Bundesliga side Werder Bremen, which means Leeds United need at least one full-back to add to Gabriel Gudmundsson, Jayden Bogle, and Sam Byram.
Daniel Farke will then sanction the exit for Schmidt. Now, a Leeds United Newsexclusive revealed Leeds want to add in at least one full-back to their ranks before the deadline.
However, we also explained that Leicester’s Justin is on Leeds’ radar following the Schmidt reveal. Leeds fans have reacted positively to Justin being linked already, with more depth undoubtedly required.
Leicester City full-back James Justin celebrates at The Emirates
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images
Leicester City expert explains his thoughts on Leeds United target James Justin
It’s already been claimed that Leeds are already looking at Justin alternatives. We have also suggested that Joakim Maehle should be on Leeds’ full-back shortlist.
However, he is one of the club’s top choices to take Schmidt’s place in the squad. Leeds United Newspicked the brains of EFL Analysis’ Callum Boyle, an expert on all things Leicester City, to explain what Leeds can expect.
He said: “James Justin looked like he would be the perfect full-back for years to come, but two horrible long-term injuries have seen him regress a lot.
“Some outsiders may feel that he was a scapegoat during Leicester’s performances but, if the truth be told, he made countless mistakes.
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“Justin is the perfect example of a modern day full-back in his ability to get up and down the pitch.”
Team Appearances Goals Assists
Luton Town 114 6 13
Leicester City 167 11 10
England 1 0 0
James Justin’s career stats
“I don’t know if that was because of his previous concerns with injury, a lack of confidence or more to it but it felt like he was lacking that in every sense.
“His versatility to play in both full-back positions, as well as a winger or midfielder on occasion, benefits sides and I think his Premier League experience will be valuable to Leeds and the squad as a whole.
“You don’t become a bad player overnight. What Justin may need is a fresh start elsewhere, which is something Leeds could offer him.”
Chelsea v FC Internazionale - Pre-Season Friendly
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Enzo Maresca’s verdict on James Justin
Speaking via the Leicester Mercury in September 2023, current Chelsea boss explained his feelings towards Justin during their time together with the Foxes.
The current World Champion manager said: “”The only thing I can say is that I love JJ.
“The way he works, the way he is, I really love JJ. He is going to help us 100 per cent. Now he is not playing but I am sure he is going to play a lot of games with us.
“With Hamza (Choudhury), they work very well. These players are going to stay. We need them. We need JJ, we need Hamza, we need these types of players.”
Justin is not only a player of decent pedigree and experience, but the sort of character with the intangibles that will fit into the squad well.
It won’t be Leeds’ most fun signing of the window if they secure it, but Justin is a player who might benefit from a fresh challenge to rediscover his form.
The 27-year-old is in the final year of his contract with Leicester, too.