The January transfer window: LUFC old boys or fresh blood?

Amidst the endless transfer speculation brought about by impending re-launch of the transfer window, prospective targets are thrown about more often than a Michael Brown two-footed tackle. The transfer merry-go-round that takes place on social media at this time of year generates a  plethora of names, both fresh faces and United alumni alike, leading to every ITK under the sun claiming they can reveal the identity of the next new, or in some cases not so new, face to join our club. With this in mind, we at @LUFC_Calypso have taken it upon ourselves to analyse the values of two ex-players that have been the subject of intense speculation regarding their return to LUFC; Max Gradel and Luciano Becchio. Both have been strongly linked with a return to Elland Rd, yet many feel that their current ability is less than when they first left our promotion chasing squad. We also consider other frequently-linked transfer targets, in particular Nahki Wells and Gary Mackay-Steven. Can our LUFC old boys can fire us to the top, or does the future of the football club lie in a new crop of young and ambitious players? We take a closer look...

Max Gradel is the name on many United fans’ lips after reams of gossip column inches suggesting that a reunion is imminent. With McDermott alluding to our apparent interest in the press last week, the relationship

between Gradel and the club is stronger than ever, with both fans and Max making their feelings on a potential return more than clear. Scoring 18 goals in the 2010/11 season, Gradel was a hugely influential player in our failed promotion push. Providing us with some much needed width and pace, Gradel would more than likely be a success should he return. However, with chronic knee injuries since his departure, and a well-documented fiery temperament, many consider him to be a potential liability both physically and mentally. This unpredictability does not seem to be compatible with McDermott’s search for consistency.

Looking further afield, Gary Mackay-Steven is a player at the peak of his ability. At 24, the Dundee United winger is realising his potential further with every game, and with 7 goals this season, Mackay-Steven seems to combine genuine wing play with an eye for goal. Mackay-Steven is certainly a player that we would love to see in white come the closing of the January window, yet his availability remains far from clear. Nevertheless, Mackay Steven looks every inch a Premier League player, and the Dundee flyer’s signature would represent a mouth-watering statement of ambition.

As we mentioned in a previous article, Becchio has the credentials that may prove appealing for Brian

McDermott. A proven record and a clear affinity with the club, many consider it to be a match made in heaven. However, Nakhi Wells offers qualities that are simply not at McDermott’s disposal in the current squad. Scoring 15 goals in 19 appearances so far this season, Wells’ sheer pace only adds impetus to the claim that League One is significantly below his capabilities. With 42 goals in 63 appearances since signing for local rivals Bradford, the Bermudan is rightly considered one of the Football League’s hot properties, and although questions may be asked about whether he is within our price range, he is certainly a talent that should not be overlooked given our need for versatility and pace in equal measure.

Having said this, pigeon-holing Wells as a mere speed merchant is doing him a disservice, and he has consistently shown finishing qualities that will stand up when he is inevitably tested at a higher level. Comparing Wells with former fan favourite Becchio like-for-like is simply not possible, with both players offering directly opposite skill sets. For McDermott, it is a simple case of comparing the value of a proven goal scoring record against an unproven prodigy. Becchio clearly knows how to score at this level, something which cannot be underestimated. However, with Matt Smith offering some similar qualities to Becchio, Wells would be the obvious choice. Whether swooping for the 23 year old is viable, we shall see.

By signing Wells and Mackay Steven as opposed to Gradel and Becchio, McDermott would be setting a precedent of buying players in the prime with the future in mind, a precedent that in our opinion would be welcomed with open arms. As always, we welcome your comments and feedback – let us know your thoughts by tweeting us at @LUFC_Calypso!