Whelan thrilled with ‘massive’ Max Wober development after new Leeds United reveal
Noel Whelan has backed Max Wober to make his full debut for Leeds United against Cardiff on Sunday (8 January) after his early-window arrival.
The former Whites striker and club ambassador, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted getting the 24-year-old through the door early is a “massive positive” after the defensive struggles this term.
Leeds United announced the signing of Wober on Tuesday (3 January) – with the versatile defender signing a contract running until the summer of 2027.
As first revealed by Football Insider (28 December), the Whites have paid RB Salzburg an initial £9.5million fee for Wober – which could rise to £14million after add-ons.
The natural centre-back has been in impressive form for Salzburg this season, with his 21 matches yielding six assists and two goals – mainly from left-back.
Pascal Struijk has been playing at left-back for Leeds United this season in the absence of a reliable natural option.
As quoted by Leeds Live (6 January), Jesse Marsch confirmed Wober is “in the mix” to make his bow against Cardiff in the FA Cup.
Whelan told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “The fact that we’ve got the business done early is a massive positive.
“It gives a boost to the players; it gives optimism to the fans – and that’s huge.
“He’s come in and bolstered the squad with international quality and experience, and it’s good to see the club targeting players like that.
“He can play in two positions which have given us a bit of trouble this season, so it’s more strength and depth which can really help.
“All in all, I think he can be a very good signing. I’m looking forward to seeing how he fits into the group against Cardiff so he can get up to speed with the Premier League.”
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