Leeds and Manchester United may have an intense rivalry that spans back decades, but there can be no denying that there is a deeply routed bond between the two clubs.

Both giants of the English game, one continues to challenge for football’s greatest honours while one has fallen on hard times, with the Whites hoping to return to the Premier League in the near future to write the next chapter of their great rivalry with their neighbours from across the Pennines.

Some of the greats of the game, including Eric Cantona and Rio Ferdinand, made the switch between the clubs, with the transfer of Alan Smith back in 2004 also serving to cause a further rift between fans of each club.

Fans would love to see the rivalry reborn next season, and Leeds could be interested in asking United for help in their quest for top-flight football, with midfielder Scott McTominay linked with a loan move to Elland Road.

The midfielder would be a coup, but could others follow him?

Here we take a look at two more players who could cross the divide in the new year…

James Wilson

The 22-year-old burst onto the scene as a teenager when he found the net twice during his Old Trafford debut against Hull City, but has failed to see his career develop in recent times.

Whereas Marcus Rashford’s goalscoring debut has led to what looks like a long career in the United first-team, it has taken Wilson more time to find his feet, with the player yet to appear under Mourinho this season.

Loan spells in the Championship with Derby and Brighton weren’t overly successful, but the striker now appears ready to try his hand at the division again following a solid spell with United’s reserve side.

Leeds need a striker following the failure of summer signings, and Wilson could be the perfect man to find the goals for the Whites.

Joel Pereira

The Swiss-born goalkeeper has a bright future at Old Trafford, but is currently restricted to being considered the third-choice goalkeeper at the club.

The 21-year-old is behind David De Gea and Sergio Romero in the pecking order, and could seek a loan move in the new year to ensure he gains a valuable taste of first-team football.

The youngster spent time in the Football League with Rochdale so knows the demands of the competition, and with Leeds’ Felix Wiedwald criticised on a regular basis this season for a series of mistakes, Christiansen could be tempted to bring Pereira in.

The player would present an upgrade on the German, with the teachings of De Gea and Romero having seen the player grow massively over the past couple of seasons, and Pereira is likely to be open to an Elland Road switch.

If Christiansen makes an offer with a clause that would allow United to recall the player, then he has a decent chance of securing his signature.

Leeds fans, would any of this trio be a welcome addition to your club in the new year? Have your say below...