Garry Monk has placed Kyle Bartley at the top of his transfer wish list, should he remain as Leeds United’s head-coach ahead of next season, reports the Yorkshire Evening Post.

Bartley has been a colossus for Leeds this season, making 50 appearances and scoring six goals, as the Whites went within touching distance of reaching the Sky Bet Championship Play-Offs.

Having arrived at Elland Road on-loan from Swansea City last summer, Bartley has captained the Whites on numerous occasions in the absence of Liam Bridcutt, forming an excellent partnership in the heart of defence with Pontus Jansson.

Monk’s long-term future at Leeds is in doubt, with contract talks expected to take place in the coming weeks, however, the 38-year old is keen to bring Bartley back to Elland Road, should he extend his stay in West Yorkshire.

The former Swansea manager has described Bartley’s development this season as “his best progression as a footballer” having led a young Leeds squad to a seventh-placed finish in the Championship.

It looked increasingly likely Monk would lead Leeds to a top-six finish, but four defeats from their last eight Championship fixtures, which included just one victory, saw the Whites slip out of the Play-Off zone.

Leeds fans… Is Monk right to prioritise a deal for Bartley? Let us know your thoughts!