Leeds United are looking at the possibility of signing Everton left-back Luke Garbutt.
Luke Garbutt, who was in Leeds’ Academy from 2001 to 2009, has been linked with a return to the Whites. According to Football Whispers, Garbutt is likely to move to Leeds as he strives for consistent first-team football.
Garbutt made his breakthrough in 2014, making his first start against Swansea in the League Cup. Garbutt went on to play 4 times in the Europa League, including 2 starts against BSC Young Boys in the Round of 16. The left back endured a spell in the first team after and injury to Leighton Baines. The then 22 year-old was awarded with a 5 year deal at the end of the season.
Since, first-team opportunities have had to come elsewhere, with Garbutt being loaned to Fulham for the 2015/16 season and Wigan for 2016/17.
The left-back made 0 first team appearances in the 2017/18 season, only featuring for the reserves in the Premier League 2 and the EFL Trophy with the U23s.
Leeds are highly likely to be in the market for a left-back this window. Gaetano Berardi – naturally a right back – has been filling in at left back. Academy graduate Tom Pearce has recently signed a new deal with the club after interest from Bournemouth and Everton. At Leeds, Garbutt could finally play consistent first-team football.
Garbutt has been praised for his crossing ability. After his breakthrough, Garbutt was compared to team mate Leighton Baines for his ability to pick out dangerous crosses with his left foot.
Leeds could face opposition for Garbutt’s signature. Steve McClaren’s Queens Park Rangers will be in the market for a left-back after Jack Robinson left the club after rejecting a 2 year-deal, and they may look at Garbutt as an ideal replacement. However, Yorkshire-born Garbutt could fancy a return to the club where it all began at the age of 8.
