By Tom Blackburn
Leeds became the first club to make an approach to Fleetwood about signing right-back Conor McLaughlin – and their fans took to Twitter to discuss the League One defender.
Football Insider reported on Monday morning that Leeds had made the first move for McLaughlin in a bid to beat other second-tier clubs to his signature.
Gaetano Berardi and youngster Lewie Coyle are manager Garry Monk’s current players on the right side of defence, although the latter also doubles up in midfield.
McLaughlin can operate as either a right-back or a wing-back, and is renowned for his forward forays and calibre in the final third.
The 24-year-old, who has played for Fleetwood for four years, made 42 appearances in all competitions last year for the Fishermen last year.
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Manager Steven Pressley wants to keep a hold of his prize asset but may have to cash in on him now, with only 12 months remaining on the former Preston full-back’s contract.
Lots of Leeds fans seem curious about the potential signing of McLaughlin with some believing it may signal the end of Berardi.
Absolutely bizarre that we are linked with Conor McLaughlin. Berardi and Coyle are already more than adequate at RB. #lufc
— I'd Radebe Leeds (@Radebe_Leeds) July 18, 2016
https://twitter.com/themightyleeds/status/754709062428794880
Rated Conor McLaughlin when we had him, watching the player he's turned into is gutting. Wrong decision to have sold him #pnefc
— Tom (@eternaljimmies) July 16, 2016
Feeling that conor mclaughlin will be next✍🏻✍🏻 #lufc
— DAVO (@davoofficiaI) July 18, 2016
have to say even if he comes in I would play him over Berradi #lufc
— Kershaw (@DavidKershaw7) July 18, 2016
https://twitter.com/MichaelMilnerr/status/754643135175811073
Adam Reach, Anthony Limbombe, McLaughlin, Bridcutt, Rico Henry come on Leeds cb, Cm, Striker and Winger needed ✍✍✍✍✍✍✍✍✍ @LUFC
— Darren (@UnitedLeeds_) July 17, 2016
In other Leeds news, they are preparing for a wave of new signings after youngsters arrive on trial.
