Marcelo Bielsa has been discussing Leeds United’s options in central defence ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Stoke City, admitting it would be good to bring another player on board before the end of the transfer window.

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Leeds have just two recognised centre-backs in the first-team squad, with Pontus Jansson and Liam Cooper looking likely to be Bielsa’s first choice for the upcoming season.

In Luke Ayling and Gaetano Berardi, Leeds have two full-backs comfortable stepping into a back-three, whilst Conor Shaughnessy featured regularly at centre-back last season.

Bielsa has also taken the decision to move Kalvin Phillips into a deeper role over pre-season, with the midfielder expected to be part of a back-three against Stoke tomorrow.

The new Leeds head-coach did admit he would be open to adding another body to Leeds’ defence, however.

Discussing Leeds’ centre-back options, he told Leeds Live: “Berardi, Jansson, Cooper, Shaughnessy, Ayling. We have these players.

“Even if we have just Cooper and Jansson as centre-backs, Shaughnessy is a defensive midfielder, but he can play there, as can Berardi as a full-back.

“Kalvin Phillips can also play as a centre-back. Ayling already played as a centre-back. If we could add another option it would be good too.”

It has become common knowledge over the last week that Leeds are keen to bring Matthew Pennington back to Elland Road for a second spell, having had the Everton centre-back on-loan last season.

The 23-year-old made 24 appearances of Leeds last season, as the Whites finished 13th.

The Verdict

Centre-back is a key position in any side, and with Leeds playing with a three-man defence, they need more expertise in that position.

Bielsa seems happy with having his versatile players filling in for now, but he does admit he would be open to another option coming in.

Pennington seems to be the target, but Leeds will need the 23-year-old to be far more consistent if they are to have any success in the Championship this season.

Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!