Leeds United are closing in on the signing of Matthew Pennington.

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Despite interest from Blackburn Rovers and Wigan Athletic, Pennington has decided that he wants to rejoin Leeds on another season-long loan deal, Football Insider reports.

Pennington spent last season at Elland Road on loan and played 24 games for the club.

Leeds have been desperate to bring in some cover at centre-half as they had to partner Liam Cooper with Gaetano Berardi - a natural right-back - on the opening day.

Pontus Jansson is expected to come back into the starting line-up soon after an extended break because of the World Cup but Marcelo Bielsa wants another player in.

Pennington looks like the man who is set to arrive after he indicated his preference to return to Leeds rather than move to Blackburn or Wigan.

The 23-year-old has played nine games in all competitions for Everton, with his only goal coming against bitter rivals Liverpool, and he has had experience out on loan at Tranmere Rovers, Coventry City and Walsall.

The Verdict

There are better options out there and I am not sure why Bielsa has been so keen to get Pennington back.

The former England youth international did not have the greatest season at Leeds and many Whites fans will be underwhelmed by this.

But I suppose his presence at centre-half adds another option to Bielsa's squad and gives them depth at centre-half.

Leeds fans - Would you like to sign Pennington? Let us know below...