Hasselbaink names two priority signings Leeds must make; wants old boy to return

Lewis Cook, Eddie Nketiah

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink says Leeds must make more signings if they are to enjoy a positive first season back in the Premier League. 

The Whites ended a 16-year absence from the top flight when they secured promotion from the Championship in June.

They have been active in the transfer market since then, signing the likes of Rodrigo and Robin Koch. Permanent deals for Helder Costa and Illan Meslier have also been secured.

But Hasselbaink insists the Whites still need to add more new faces to the squad before the transfer window closes.

Speaking to GentingBet, the Dutchman said: “Leeds need to strengthen in all areas if they are going to do well – from goalkeeper all the way to the striker.

“There are a few players they have that will play week in week out – Phillips, Klich, Hernandez – but even then, Hernandez is getting older and was already stay struggling to stay fit the whole of last year.

“So, he’s going to find it even harder this year. But those are players with big abilities who can play in the Premier League. But you also always need backup.

“Leeds need to strengthen. They need a striker because you need goals. You might not create 10 chances like you were creating in the in the Championship.

“They also need a goalkeeper who is not as chaotic as the last one. So, they’ve got a big job to do ahead.”

Marcelo Bielsa’s side are being linked with several players and are expected to do more business.

Udinese star Rodrigo de Paul could arrive at Elland Road in the coming weeks in another club-record deal. The 26-year-old would cost around £31million, which is £5million more than the fee paid to Valencia for Spanish international striker Rodrigo just last week.

Arsenal glovesman Emiliano Martinez, Tottenham defender Juan Foyth and Rangers winger Ryan Kent are also potential targets as Leeds continue in their attempts to add depth to their squad.

 

Hasselbaink backs Cook return

Lewis Cook

Hasselbaink also approved of talk suggesting that Lewis Cook could be on his way back to the West Yorkshire club.

Cook played 85 games and scored two goals for Leeds before leaving for Bournemouth in the summer of 2016.

But Cook could leave the Cherries after their relegation, and the Whites are one of the teams believed to be interested.

When asked about the rumours, Hasselbaink suggested that Leeds resigning the 23-year-old would make complete sense.

Lewis Cook is a really good midfield player and I can understand why Leeds want him back,” he said.

“He gets up and down the pitch well. Technically, he is very, very good. He would be a big plus for Leeds if he were to join.”

 

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