The transfer market has already seen plenty of action throughout the Premier League and Football League this summer, with clubs preparing to make improvements and find themselves in a better position for success moving forward. Leeds United is undoubtedly one in this particular category, as the West Yorkshire side looks to improve on their 13th place finish in the Championship table last season and bring first division football back to Elland Road.
New manager Garry Monk brings Premier League experience that can help Leeds United achieve significant milestones in days to come. Having only signed a one-year rolling contract, the former Swansea City manager would want to get his leadership abilities accredited by owners and management of the club sooner rather than later.
One transfer target that could help in accomplishing this objective is 22-year-old NEC Nijmegen forward Anthony Limbombe. The young winger shows incredible potential and the team has been interested in his services for over a year now. We take a look at what Leeds supporters can expect if he is brought into the squad for the upcoming campaign.
INTERNATIONAL PEDIGREE
Limbombe has the ability to bring both pace and creativity from almost anywhere on the pitch, and can line-up on either the left or right wing in the attacking half. He has represented the Belgian youth national team at several levels and stands to benefit from a nation that has recently produced some of the top talents in the Premier League. Assuming he goes on to represent Belgium on the senior squad, playing alongside stars like Eden Hazard and Kevin De Bruyne will only accelerate his development in the coming years.
EUROPEAN EXPERIENCE
The Mechelen native would be able to bring both Champions and Europa League experience to Leeds United, which would only stand to benefit the entire squad. Leeds is looking not only for promotion back to the Premier League, but also needs to bring European league action back to their schedule as well. With KRC Genk in the Belgian Jupiler Pro League, Limbombe was part of a title winning team during the 2010-11 season and, at a very young age, was able to participate in the continent’s top competition. Testing himself against the best clubs in Europe only helped his confidence, and this shows the attacking flair he can provide on the ball. He has also played in the attacking midfielder role during his time in both Belgium and the Netherlands and can provide excellent service to teammates in transition. Forwards like Chris Wood stand to benefit greatly from Limbombe’s skill set.
A FOOTBALLING FAMILY
A youngster growing up in the game can usually evolve even greater thanks to the consistent experience they receive. Anthony’s older brother Stallone Limbombe plays professional football with Belgium club Antwerp FC, and the family is thoroughly immersed in football. Anthony began his youth playing days at the KV Mechelen academy in his hometown at the age of six and has already received an enormous amount of professional experience for his age. With Leeds United requiring a spark at the forward position and the talents that Limbombe can bring to the club, the estimated 2 million Euros transfer fee may be an investment that Leeds United will not want to miss out on.
