Leeds United have reportedly turned their attention to former Arsenal midfield man Francis Coquelin, according to The Leeds Press.
The Whites are facing a midfield injury crisis, with Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev out until early next year.
Farke Looking For An Experienced Replacement
With Welsh international Ampadu and Bulgarian international Gruev on the treatment table, manager Daniel Farke is hunting an experienced midfielder to provide cover and competition for Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell.
The Elland Road outfit had been linked with former West Ham United man Cheikhou Kouyate, but his move to Yorkshire was stopped following a medical. Earlier today, former Rangers player Ryan Kent was linked with a move to the three-time English champions.
When discussing the type of player he is looking for, Daniel Farke said,
“If a young player is struggling with the pressure with playing for a club like Leeds United, to not crack, we need a player who has experience and this mentality. This is what we’re searching for.”
The Whites sit fifth in the Championship as they look to avoid a repeat of last season’s playoff heartbreak.
Who Is Francis Coquelin?
Coquelin is a 33-year-old free agent who has yet to find a club following his release from Villareal. The midfielder had been with the Yellow Submarine for four seasons, making over 100 appearances.
Having begun his youth career in France, Coquelin headed to England to join Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal, making his first team debut in a League Cup match against Sheffield United in 2008.
During his time with the Gunners, he spent time on loan with FC Lorient, SC Freiburg and Charlton Athletic. The two-time FA Cup winner would eventually leave The Emirates on a permanent deal to Valencia, where he stayed for two seasons before moving to Villareal.
Writer’s View
Coquelin is an experienced midfielder who was playing at a very high level until his release and he would help fill the void left by the injuries to Ampadu and Gruev.
With his experience of the English game, he should settle well and would be an ideal short-term signing for Farke’s men.
