, OPINION: Leeds United should sign 79 cap international free agent

OPINION: Leeds United should sign 79 cap international free agent

Leeds United missed out on the signing of Kyle Bartley today, as the former Swansea City defender agreed a deal that saw him move to the Hawthorns to join West Bromwich Albion.

Whites supporters had been desperate to see Bartley move permanently to Elland Road following a successful loan spell in the 2016/17 season, but that ship has well and truly sailed now.

Leeds still need to sign a centre back this summer, and they could look to a former West Brom defender as their man.

Gareth McAuley left the club this summer following their relegation from the Premier League. His contract expired at the end of June and the club decided not to renew his deal.

McAuley is 38-years-old, so yes, he is old, and he may not have many years left in him, but he is an extremely experienced defender that could be excellent in the Sky Bet Championship.

The Northern Irish international has played 203 times in the Premier League, and due to his age he may not be capable of still playing in the top flight, hence his need to drop down to the second tier.

As well as providing experience on the playing field, the signing of McAuley could prove invaluable to the younger players at the club.

Alongside his 200+ Premier League appearances, Gareth McAuley has represented his country 79 times, scoring nine goals, including a goal at the 2016 European Championships in France.

He has experienced it all, and the young players at Elland Road could learn a lot from him.

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