Exclusive: Leeds United backed to sign "superb" Southampton star | OneFootball

Joe Rothwell joined Leeds United on loan from Bournemouth last summer

David Prutton has claimed a permanent move for Joe Rothwell this summer would make a lot of sense for Leeds United.

The midfielder joined Daniel Farke’s side in the summer on a temporary basis, arriving from Bournemouth.

The 30-year-old had struggled for game time in the Premier League with the Cherries, leading to him dropping down the Championship in search of minutes.

He’s made 35 appearances in the league this term, including 23 starts, with Leeds in contention for automatic promotion to the top flight.

David Prutton makes Joe Rothwell transfer claim

Prutton believes Leeds should make a move to sign Rothwell on a permanent basis if they go up to the Premier League.

He highlighted the player’s experience, dead ball delivery and composure in possession as key traits he brings to the team, suggesting he offers strength and depth to Farke’s midfield options.

“Joe Rothwell has been superb this season for Leeds,” Prutton exclusively told Football League World.

“The experience that he’s shows, that smattering of Premier League experience, could bode well if they were to sign him permanently if they go up.

“Given the options in the middle of the field, with the likes of [Ilia] Gruev and Ethan Ampadu and Ao Tanaka, his delivery from a set piece, his composure in possession, he’s got real leadership qualities.

“A real humble player, a player that is very well liked by his teammates and the fans that he’s committed himself to this season.

“And, as well, you’ve got to look at the number of games that he’s got under his belt, which is why a player does leave to go on loan, to try and get the game time that he’s missing at his parent club, which he’s got in spades.

“The question being sometimes playing away from home, which I don’t really know why it’s become a thing because he’s a very seasoned professional.

“But he knows how to do it on the road, and in front of his own fans, and I absolutely do think Leeds should be signing a player such as that.

“Because of what potentially he’s put towards potentially getting them into the Premier League, but because of his personality and nous when it comes to operating in midfield.

“Yes, it’s a different proposition against Premier League teams, but cutting the cloth accordingly from a financial point of view Joe could fit pretty well into that for Leeds.”

Leeds are currently top of the Championship table, level on points with second place Sheffield United.

Rothwell deal could make sense for Leeds

If Rothwell can be signed for a relatively cheap amount, then he could prove a very shrewd addition on a permanent basis this summer - with it being claimed that it may take £7.5m to acquire his services.

Prutton has highlighted a lot of important attributes he can bring to the team, and he’s already proven his fit for Farke’s style of play.

Leeds will need midfield options if they are competing in the Premier League next year, and Rothwell could be a smart piece of depth for the intensity of the top flight.