Why Leeds must sign James Chester on a short-term loan in January

Back in July, the Leeds Live had claimed Leeds United were interested in signing Aston Villa defender James Chester. However, a move didn’t go through during the summer transfer window.

Leeds United sold Pontus Jansson to Championship rivals Brentford before the start of the season and Marcelo Bielsa was eyeing for his replacement. Failing to sign James Chester saw the Whites sign Ben White on a season-long loan from Brighton.

Ben White has made quite the impression on loan at Leeds United this season. He has been one of the stars of the Championship this season, and was voted the PFA Fans’ Player of the Month for August.

In fact, the 21-year-old went into the season having not played at a level higher than League One, but he has proved to be a revelation at the heart of the Leeds defence.

However, Leeds do need some depth in defence to sustain the entire season and rekindling interest in James Chester during January would certainly make sense.

Chester, 30, captained Aston Villa’s promotion push last season but hasn’t played a competitive match for his club since the end of January following a series of niggling knee and hamstring injuries.

The 30-year-old returned to match-action during the week, playing 70 minutes for the under-23s against Fulham as his preparations continue.

The no-nonsense defender may be nearing full fitness but breaking into Dean Smith’s XI would be a tough job for him. The Villans bolstered their defence this summer with Smith bringing in as many as four new players to compete in the Premier League campaign.

With Tyrone Mings and Bjorn Engels regular starters and the likes of Ezri Konsa and Kortney Hause waiting in the wings, Chester’s chances could come at a premium. Thus, a short-term loan move away from Villa Park would be sensible and Leeds could be Chester’s ideal destination.

More Leeds United News

Chester is a quality centre-back and one who would undoubtedly improve Leeds’ team, provided he can keep himself fit.

Not only does the Welshman have promotion experience with Hull City but he also has an international pedigree. The former West Brom man is a natural leader, a tenacious tackler and one who is never afraid to put his body on the line for his team.

Verdict

Chester has served Villa with distinction during his four-year association, proving a real leader of men. He is a proven Championship performer and would be a superb addition to the Bielsa’s Leeds, for whom promotion this season is an absolute must.