Noel Whelan has backed Leeds United to make it "third time lucky" in their attempts of signing Liverpool winger Harry Wilson this summer.

Wilson has been a target for Leeds in the previous two summer transfer windows, on the back of enjoying impressive loan spells at Hull City and Derby County.

The 23-year-old scored 18 goals across all competitions as Derby reached the Championship play-off final last term, including a composed penalty in an enthralling second-leg victory at Elland Road.

This season, Wilson has thrived in the Premier League, spending the season on loan with AFC Bournemouth and scoring seven goals in 23 appearances for Eddie Howe's side.

But with parent club Liverpool getting better and better by the year, the chances of Wilson breaking into the side ahead of the likes of Mo Salah and Sadio Mane is unlikely.

Football Insider have recently claimed that the Reds are willing to listen to permanent offers for Wilson, and a bid in the region of £12-13m could be enough to secure his signature.

Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan has backed Marcelo Bielsa to land his man at the "third time lucky" this summer.

He said: "It could be third time lucky. He has gone to Bournemouth and Derby previously (instead of Leeds).

“He is a player that is admired by Marcelo Bielsa and a player that fits the bill when you look at style of play – an attacking midfielder that has technical ability on the ball.

“He has a little taste of Premier League football so if he is available I think Leeds will be interested.

“He seems like a very, very exciting player and a good addition. Coming from Liverpool, he has great pedigree and he has proven his worth at Derby. There is a player there.”

The Verdict

Wilson would be an excellent acquisition for Leeds if they make a long-awaited return to the Premier League.

After excelling in the Championship, it was always going to be interesting to see how he fared in the top-flight, and he's been hugely impressive for Bournemouth scoring plenty of crucial goals.

He would be a talisman for Leeds and would get better and better under a manager like Bielsa.