Oxford United have confirmed on their official site that Head Scout Craig Dean has left the club to take up a role at Leeds United.

Dean enjoyed a successful spell with the U’s since joining the club in 2014, with his eye for talent helping to guide the Oxfordshire club to promotion from League Two in 2016.

In their first season in the third tier, Oxford finished just outside the playoff spots in eighth position, and Dean’s successful recruitment continued this summer whilst working alongside new boss Pep Clotet.

Xemi was brought in from Barcelona B, with Ricardinho joining from Azerbaijani club Qabala, and Ivo Pekalski joining from Swedish outfit, Halmstads.

Leeds have opted for a policy of foreign recruitment since the appointment of Thomas Christiansen this summer, and Dean’s knowledge of the European game fits in perfectly with the transfer philosophy installed by the Danish boss.

The Verdict

Leeds have enjoyed excellent success this summer in Europe, with their recruitment from obscure teams from across the continent unveiling some real gems.

Dean is likely to work closely with Director of Football Victor Orta, and Leeds fans can expect their new scout to identify players that will have a similar impact to the likes of Ezgjan Alioski and Pierre-Michel Lasogga over the coming years.

This is an excellent move by the board at Elland Road, and one fans can be extremely excited about.

Leeds fans, are you keen to see further recruitment from abroad or do you think the club should turn their attentions to the English game? Have your say below...

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