Ex-Leeds United forward Noel Whelan has urged the club to sign former Aston Villa defender Tommy Elphick on a free transfer this summer.

The centre-half endured a hugely impressive loan spell with Hull City last term, helping the Tigers fly up the Championship table and become real contenders to finish in the play-off spots.

But despite being recalled by Villa in January, the 31-year-old made just 11 appearances in the second half of the campaign, and now finds himself unattached after being let go upon the expiry of contract at Villa Park.

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Elphick was one of eight players to be let go by the Villans following their promotion to the Premier League, but speaking to Football Insider, Whelan has urged Marcelo Bielsa to take advantage of the defender's situation 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.

"He could be a great free signing and a great signing for next season."

Liam Cooper and Pontus Jansson have been solid figures in the heart of Leeds' defence this season, but with the latter being linked with a move to Benfica in recent times, defensive reinforcements are needed in the summer.

The Whites will be looking to bolster their squad, as they look to go one step further in their quest for top-flight football.

The Verdict

I think that Leeds definitely need to bolster their defensive options this summer, and Elphick could be an excellent signing for them for a bargain price.

He may getting on a bit, but he knows what it takes to be successful at this level, having captained AFC Bournemouth to promotion to the Premier League in 2015.

He was incredible for Hull last season, and on a free transfer, it's surely worth a punt for Marcelo Bielsa.