Noel Whelan has suggested that Leeds United Director of Football Victor Orta is looking at possible January signings for Marcelo Bielsa. 

Leeds currently sit inside the Championship’s top-two and find themselves on an eight match unbeaten run, with five wins in as many matches.

The Athletic recently reported that the Whites were expecting a quiet winter window, with the squad in good shape.

However, Whelan has noted a couple of the possible scenarios that might take place, with Eddie Nketiah at risk of a recall and Kiko Casilla’s potential ban still hanging over the club.

And, Whelan has suggested he’s hearing that Orta is lining up transfer targets with January in mind.

“We still need to strengthen in January,” Whelan said, as quoted by Football Insider. “I hope Victor Orta is looking and I’m hearing whispers that he is. 

“We need another striker, especially if Arsenal recall Nketiah, another goalkeeper if Kiko Casilla gets a long ban and possibly another centre-back.

“I think Orta is looking at three January signings, although whether we would sign three is another matter. 

“We have enough midfielders and wide men, and Marcelo Bielsa has lots of options in those positions.

“When you look at the heart of defence and up front, those will be Orta’s priorities.”

Nketiah has managed only 11 substitute appearances in the Championship this season, with Patrick Bamford leading the line in every Championship fixture so far for the Whites and returning seven goals.

At the other end of the pitch, Casilla has been an ever-present in the Championship, keeping 10 clean sheets and sitting behind the best defence in the second-tier.

The Verdict

Whilst it is exciting to hear that Orta might well be lining up transfer targets for Bielsa, this is a little bit of a bittersweet update, as incomings might only come if these two scenarios play out.

Nketiah leaving would be a blow, as he’s scored five goals this season and shown his quality, despite a lack of playing time.

Additionally, Casilla is one of Leeds’ most impressive performers and taking him out of the defensive line-up due to suspension would undoubtedly hurt Bielsa’s side.

It feels like it will be a case of ‘watch this space’ as we approach the New Year.

Thoughts? Let us know!