Leeds United have reportedly made a surprise inquiry for versatile Everton defender Mason Holgate, who the Toffees may let go in the January transfer window.
According to The Sun, Leeds United have made a transfer inquiry about Everton central defender Mason Holgate as they look to strengthen their defensive options at manager Jesse Marsch’s disposal in the winter transfer window.
Holgate joined Everton from Barnsley in August 2015 and has progressed steadily to become a utility first-team member since then. While the 26-year-old has proven himself as a handy player to have in the squad owing to his versatility to play across the defensive line, he has been unable to nail down a starting spot in the side thus far.
To date, Holgate has made 145 appearances for the Toffees, chipping in with five goals and five assists along the way. However, there remains a stinging feeling that the former England Under-21 international has been unable to realize his full potential despite being highly regarded in his early 20s.
Nevertheless, he was one of Everton’s most consistent performers during the final few weeks of the 2021/22 season, tightening up at the back as Frank Lampard saved the relegation-bound sinking ship left by Rafael Benitez’s turbulent managerial stint.
Holgate started Everton’s first four league games of the season before sustaining a major knee injury against Brentford. He now finds himself well down the pecking order following the summer arrivals of James Tarkowski and Conor Coady.
Everton could well put him up for sale in January, as Frank Lampard already has a number of defenders at his disposal. In addition, the Toffees are in the midst of a dire financial situation, so Holgate’s exit could help reduce their wage bill while also bringing in some cash to help fund their own survival push.
Per the Sun, Leeds United have approached their fellow Premier League rivals for the defender, but could face some stiff competition from French club Lyon.
Centre-back remains an area of priority for the Whites to strengthen next month, with defensive lapses something of a common recurrence for Leeds in the first half of the current season. Jesse Marsch’s troops find themselves in a perilous position in the Premier League.
And there are valid questions about the lack of quality at the back. Although Leeds’ current defensive roster has the experience, it lacks pace and front-foot defending. They are easily exposed and vulnerable to quick counters, which was on display in their last friendly, which saw Monaco run out 4-2 victors at Elland Road.
Holgate is a versatile, athletic, and ball-playing defender who can play at either centre-back or right-back or even as a holding midfielder if needed and would likely be available for a reasonable fee. He has extensive Premier League experience under his belt and relegation battle know-how.
However, the big question remains whether Everton would be open about doing business for their prized defender with a fellow relegation rival, with both sides glancing nervously over their shoulders at the relegation zone.
