Jesse Marsch is eyeing a move for Philadelphia Union’s German defender Kai Wagner in January as Leeds United prioritise a new left-back.
According to The Athletic, Leeds United are keen on signing a new left-back in January, with Jesse Marsch eyeing up a move for Kai Wagner. The Philadelphia Union star could be made available as he only has a short deal with the MLS side.
Jesse Marsch will reflect on the mixed-bag start to their season before the World Cup break and may evaluate certain needs for this squad. Having strengthened sufficiently in the summer, the Whites were also reeling from the departures of key stars like Raphinha and Kalvin Phillips.
Overall, Leeds United has done decently, but their displays against some big teams caught the eye. The last-gasp win over Liverpool was a turning point when it seemed like Marsch might lose his job due to bad results on board.
For now, the club is behind the American manager. They could even provide funds to strengthen the squad before the January window. There are many needs for Marsch next month, but signing a decent left-back is considered necessary.
Leeds United have reeled without a notable option on the flank, with Pascal Struijk playing as a makeshift full-back since the season began. Marsch has options in Junior Firpo, but the former Barcelona player has yet to hit the ground running despite being provided with ample time to make a mark.
Marsch is looking at some formidable options, such as Raphael Guerreiro, but knows the difficulties in luring the Portugal international to Elland Road. While he continues the search for a viable option, more names are on the list, including Kai Wagner of Philadelphia Union.
There’s little known about the German defender playing in the MLS, but Marsch is well aware of the happenings in the Northern American market. Leeds are interested in Wagner and could approach in the coming days. The 25-year-old has proved a handful in the MLS, playing 33 times this season and providing eight assists.
He has yet to experience playing in any of the top divisions of Europe, but Marsch is hopeful of developing his talents further. The German defender only has a short-term contract with the MLS side, meaning he could be signed for a relatively small sum.
