Leeds United look the outside bet to win promotion following a nightmare weekend which saw them lose 2-1 at home to Wigan.

The Whites threw away a 1-0 lead and a one man advantage to slump back into third and behind Sheffield United in the race for promotion.

However, former Leeds forward Noel Whelan has backed the club to make some big signings in the summer if they are promoted, highlighting their relationship with Manchester City as something Marcelo Bielsa might tap into.

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“Bielsa and Guardiola have been good friends from a long time ago and have a special relationship with each other, and that can only be a good thing for Leeds,” Whelan told Football Insider.

“We have only taken Harrison from Man City so far, but that’s probably because we have been in the Championship and they would rather their youngsters play in certain leagues.

Harrison has been in impressive enough form during his spell at Elland Road and he could well be someone the club target for a permanent move in the summer, although a lot could depend on the club winning promotion or not.

But Whelan is hoping that his former club can utilise their partnership with City, and backed Leeds to bring more in from the Etihad if they can facilitate deals.

“Maybe next season there might be a couple of Man City’s young players going on loan to Leeds, who can really help us if we get promoted. We are not going to be able to afford the same players as Man City even if we get promoted, so we won’t be a rival to them.”  Whelan added.

Leeds travel to Brentford on Monday knowing a win is necessary if they are to keep the pressure on Sheffield United at the summit of the table.

The Verdict

Whelan is quite vocal lately when it comes to Leeds, but he could have a valid point with this one.

City have a whole host of young players who might fancy a move to get first team football, and Leeds would be a superb destination.

Promotion will be key though, and it remains to be seen how that pans out for the club.