Former Leeds United forward Noel Whelan believes the club should cash in on Barry Douglas as two Championship clubs fight for his signature.

The left-back has struggled on the whole since his move from Wolves, with a combination of fitness issues and the form of others restricting Douglas to just 42 games in the past two years.

With Marcelo Bielsa's men now in the Premier League, the 31-year-old is way down the pecking order and it has been reported that Watford and Blackburn are hoping to sign the Scotsman before the domestic deadline passes on October 16.

And, speaking to Football Insider, Whelan stated that a transfer away from Elland Road would suit all parties.

"It’s not been a great move for Barry and it’s not been a good move for Leeds. He was very rarely involved, we never saw the real Barry Douglas that we bought from Wolves.

"In my opinion, to get rid of a hefty wage that is sitting on the bench, not introduced to any games in the Premier League. I would say yes, Championship is all he’s going to get right now."

The verdict

It's hard to argue with Whelan here as Douglas is not going to get games for the Yorkshire club so they will obviously want to move him on.

But, he should still have a lot to offer so he needs to find a club that will give him the regular minutes he warrants and there will be many who can do just that in the Championship.

A transfer to Watford or Blackburn would represent a great deal for all concerned.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.