Noel Whelan has urged Leeds United to sign Tommy Elphick this summer, following his release from Aston Villa.
The 31-year-old was one of eight players to be let go by Villa following their promotion to the Premier League, putting an end to a frustrating season for the defender.
The centre-half endured a hugely impressive loan spell with Hull City in the first half of the campaign, guiding the Tigers up the league table, before being recalled by Villa and making just 11 appearances.
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Speaking to Football Insider, amid speculation linking Pontus Jansson with a move to Benfica, Whelan has urged Bielsa to sign Elphick on a free transfer this summer.
He said: "Leeds will be looking at him - I would be if I was in charge, absolutely. Leeds have looked at him before and he’d still be perfect for us.
"He’s a proper defender, aggressive, good in the air, commanding, a good player. You need players with Championship experience who know the league and we need a new centre-back, even if Pontus Jansson stays."
Here, we discuss Whelan's latest comments...
George Harbey
"I think that Elphick would be an excellent signing for Leeds.
"He is a vastly experienced defender that knows what it takes to be successful in the Championship, having captained AFC Bournemouth to promotion in 2015.
"He was excellent for Hull last season, and on a free transfer it's surely worth a punt."
Jacob Potter
"He's spot on.
"Elphick is proven in the Championship and would be a really good signing for Leeds if they registered their interest in him.
"Leeds need depth and quality in defence, and Elphick would certainly provide them with that.
"If Jansson departs in the summer, then he's the perfect replacement."
Toby Wilding
"I think Whelan may have a point here.
"Leeds were short of options in defence last season, and with Pontus Jansson's future up in the air, it will be essential to their promotion hopes next season that they find alternative options, even just as cover if Jansson stays.
"Given his experience in the Championship, where he has never looked out of place, Elphick would be a good option to fulfil that role at Elland Road."
Kealan Hughes
"He wouldn't be an upgrade on the defenders they already have.
"Elphick is 31 now and he has had his fair share of injury problems recently, which Leeds could really do without.
"The only advantage of this deal is that there is no transfer fee involved. Elphick is an experienced player but his best days are behind him, and if Leeds were to be promoted he wouldn't be able to cut it at Premier League level."