Kyle Bartley was a key member of Leeds United’s squad last season, with the central defender proving to be a popular figure at Elland Road during his loan spell from Swansea City.  

Unfortunately for Leeds, they could not lure Bartley back to Elland Road last summer, with the defender returning to Swansea City following the expiration of his season-long loan, which saw him make 50 appearances and score an impressive six goals for the Whites.

Bartley was a popular figure at Elland Road, both with the club’s supporters and players, with the 26-year-old’s bond with Luke Ayling a standout, with the former Arsenal academy duo rekindling their bond at Leeds last year.

Ayling has been taking part in a ‘You’re the Gaffer’ feature with Leeds’ official website, with the right-back discussing what kind of manager he would be.

One particular question pitched to the 26-year-old asked who he would sign in world football if he had to sign a goalkeeper, defender, midfielder and striker.

Ayling named Manuel Neuer as his goalkeeper, Luka Modric as his midfielder and Lionel Messi as his striker, with unsurprisingly, long-term friend and former teammate Bartley, named as his defender, with Ayling insisting the 26-year-old is “perfect in every way.”

The Verdict

Ayling and Bartley were close before Leeds and they clearly remain close after Leeds.

Bartley was a colossus for Leeds last season in the Championship, with the defender making his season-long loan look a breeze as Leeds went in search of promotion.

Whilst Ayling admits he would love to sign Bartley, there is no doubt that Thomas Christiansen wishes he had the power to lure the defender back to Elland Road.

Leeds fans… Let us know your thoughts!