Leeds United centre-back Pascal Struijk is being ‘linked’ with a move away this summer. While you can take the rumour itself with a pinch of salt, his contract situation makes for a looming decision.
I do think Pascal Struijk has become vastly underrated by a large portion of the Leeds fanbase. There’s a reason he was so highly rated by Marcelo Bielsa, and why he’s now seen as virtually indispensable under Daniel Farke.
As a left-footed, ball-playing centre-back with strong aerial presence, he’s a commodity that plenty of Premier League teams would like to test the waters for.
Consequently, reports have linked the Dutchman with a move elsewhere in the division, as Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Spurs are named.
Given Struijk’s contract enters the final 12 months this summer, it might be a sale Leeds consider making at the right time. He’s in peak form may not be worth this much again as he nears his 27th birthday.
Here, I look at three centre-backs I think could replace Struijk, should the club consider his exit in the summer window…
Ladislav Krejci – Wolves
Up first is a potential market opportunity that Leeds could seize upon if we stay in the division.
Wolves look doomed for relegation, as much as they’re hell-bent on ruining everyone’s season as they head into the EFL. Their recent performances outline the fact that their squad isn’t nearly as bad as their start to the season suggested.
Goalscorer against Leeds, Ladislav Krejci (26) is one of those that could definitely thrive in a left-sided centre-back role, playing for a side looking to consolidate in the division.
Versatile enough to play in midfield, Krejci would be able to replicate Struijk’s influence in possession. The Czech defender would also add similar height to the defence at 6ft3in too.
Albian Hajdari – Hoffenheim
A more left-field name up next, but another left-footer. Hoffenheim’s Albian Hajdari looks like someone with huge room for development. Although, he’s already hitting the ground running in a European top flight setting.
Hajdari, 22, moved to the Bundesliga from Swiss side Lugano for a £4.36million fee in the summer. And, he has been a mainstay for Hoffenheim, who sit outside the Champions League places on goal difference.
The Kosovo international has earned a reputation for his aggressive front-foot defending. Standing at 6ft2in, he’s taking to the challenge of the Bundesliga with relative ease.
To go with his strong defensive contribution, he’s also shown quality in progressing the ball too from the left side of defence.
Callum Doyle – Wrexham
Looking to the Championship, Wrexham potentially going for their fourth promotion on the bounce this season is worth noting.
At the heart of defence has been the inspired signing of Callum Doyle permanently from Manchester City. Signed for £7.5million, the Welsh club won’t be keen to let him leave unless they receive a mega sum.
That said, if they don’t go up through the playoffs, they may be forced to part ways with some valuable assets. Something that every Championship club has to deal with.
Replacing Struijk’s profile of a ball-playing left-footer is difficult. But, Doyle could be a viable investment after proving he’s ready for the step up to Premier League football. He’s had another strong season in the second tier at 22.
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