Daniel James linked with transfer to Leeds United

Daniel James might have played his last game for Manchester United last evening against Wolverhampton Wanderers. There have been reports all day linking him with a permanent move to rivals Leeds United, a club he previously completed a medical for in January 2019 before the deal collapsed in the final minutes.

Transfer insider Fabrizio Romana, Samuel Luckhurst of MEN, and Adam Crafton of the Athletic have confirmed Leeds’ interest. There’s also the possibility that it might only be a loan deal. Leeds aren’t the only club interested in the pacy winger’s signature, with Leicester City, Everton, and Brighton and Hove Albion also keeping an eye.

The 23-year-old Welsh international was Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s first signing as manager of Manchester United. The signing of Cristiano Ronaldo has clearly overwhelmed the squad with forward options. James is also one of the more saleable assets in the side. He’s young, experienced in the Premier League, and has some years left on his contract.

James has been one of Solskjaer’s go-to options for sides that play a higher line. He’s also one of United’s more willing pressers and his absence will be felt in games where his attributes stand out. He was tasked with helping track Adama Traore yesterday, which sums up how Solskjaer’s often used him.

United fans desperate for a holding midfielder, the need for which was ostensibly clear in the games against Wolves and Southampton, will be disappointed to learn that no mention of this has been made so far with regards to James’ potential sale.

If James were to leave, his memorable goal on debut against Chelsea in front of packed Old Trafford will live long in the memory. He’ll be a valuable player for any of the clubs that he’s been linked to.