Why Leeds-bound sensational utility defender could be the most important January signing

Leeds United have been dealt a huge blow in form of the nasty injury that has ruled Luke Ayling out of the campaign.

The right-back will surely be missed no doubt, but that the Elland Road outfit appear to have found a perfect replacement in 19-year-old Luton defender James Justin could turn out to be a great relief.

Justin, a midfielder by trade, has been a revelation in the League 2 this term, helping his side to the top of the table as they seek automatic promotion having lost last season’s semifinal playoffs.

His form didn’t only see him make his England under-20 debut last summer, Nottingham Forest also attempted to land him for £1million, highlighting how valuable and impressive he has gotten to be within a short while.

Having scouted the highly-rated Justin on several occasions, Leeds are convinced he has everything it takes to succeed at Championship level, and it appears they are ready to break Luton’s strong resolve to hold on to their man at all cost.

Luton Town Young Player of the Season last term has scored twice in 15 league appearances this term, and could bring the attacking verve Leeds fullbacks have struggled with to the table should a move go through.

Manager Thomas Christiansen has made a couple of signings thus far, but getting a perfect right-back option in Justin could be the most important one yet.