This summer most of us expect JM to depart. We have McLean coming on board. If we are seeking to sign one midfielder who is the posters favourite to recruit. Reed has stated his position, but with BG & LT both available, and Tetty possible signing a new deal, this is one position we are well stocked in. Moritz Leitner would seem to be a perfect fit for us, and maybe we should push the boat out for him. Any others in your thoughts? ( What kind of fee would it take to land ML ?).
Assuming Thompson and Godfrey come into contention, I'm not sure of the need for Reed. Both can cover his DM duties, and Godfrey seems to have at least some experience as "emergency RB". I'm undecided on Tettey. Another 2-3 year contract takes him to 34 or 35, and we already have to manage his playing time. He's probably one of our highest earners too. That said, he's effective at what he does, and as yet we've nobody in the squad who has proven they can take his role. A one year contract whilst we see if Godfrey and Thompson can take over might be ideal, but I can see Tettey wanting more security. Wes is presumably on his way out too, so we're going to be somewhat thin on creative players if Maddison leaves, but hopefully with the funds and wages to recruit well. I'd like to see Leitner back, plus another AM talent conjured up from somewhere. I can't think of any names, short of listing everyone from the 2. Bundesliga!
Leitner would be on top of my wish list. He could replace Maddison as a number 10 if he leaves or play as a deeper playmaker in a 3-4-3 formation. He could be the ideal partner for Trybull, who is more of a holding midfielder than a DM. At DM we have Godfrey and Thompson. McLean offers another option at CM on top of Vrancic and Steipermann, both of whom can also play as an AM, as can Cantwell. Phillips and Mourgos are young players who will also be pushing for places. For that reason, I think Reed, Tettey and Wes will leave as they are out of contract at the end of the season and I can't see any new midfielders coming in (other than Leitner, hopefully). IMO, another striker and a RB/WB should be our priorities.
Godfrey is a really versatile player and as well as having had a stint at RB, can slot in as a CB, or anywhere in midfield, as he's playing further forward at the Shrews. Also, Morris may nullify the need for another striker. #watchthisspace
Very true JMF. Godfrey could be next season's Maddison in terms of impact. Even better that he's so versatile.
From photos of him he appears to be a big lad. What's his pace like? I have been excited about his potential for some while now, just hope it is with us at least for a couple of seasons.
He's 6ft tall (in English money!!!) - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ben_Godfrey He did come on briefly in a home game last season and as you say ge, it would be great if he could have a couple of seasons developing with us in the same way as JM has done.
