Noel Whelan has backed Leeds United to have the edge over Rangers when it comes to the signing of Liverpool winger Ryan Kent.
Jurgen Klopp has yet to reveal whether or not the 22-year-old holds a place in his plans for the Premier League next season, with Kent making the trip on the pre-season tour to the USA recently.
Leeds were first reported by Football Insider to have made an offer for the electrifying winger, with the Gers also holding an interest in Kent.
Whelan believes that the Whites would be a more attractive prospect to the youngster next season, revealing that the Championship is a bigger challenge than the Scottish Premier League.
Speaking to Football Insider, the BBC Pundit said: “At both Leeds and Rangers, he would be a standout player. He has had a year at Rangers and developed well, but the Championship is a bigger challenge than the SPL.”
“Leeds are a very attractive proposition to Kent. He would be playing with top players like Helder Costa and in front of huge, passionate crowds where every match matters. Leeds are a special club and capable of attracting special players.”
OPINION
Wherever Kent ends up playing his football next season, he is bound to make a massive impact. The 22-year-old possesses great pace and flair down either wing, an asset that is more than desirable for any side. Kent formed a great relationship with Steven Gerrard at Rangers, something which could prove vital should Klopp sanction an exit for the youngster. Kent scored six and assisted nine goals in 43 appearances last season, stats which led to him picking up the PFA Young Player of the Year award in the Scottish Premier League. That could prove he is raring for a new challenge elsewhere, and where better than Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds. Reds teammate Harry Wilson highlighted how much freedom a loan in the Championship can give you last season at Derby County, and Kent could use that as motivation should he have to make a decision. After succeeding in Scotland, Kent may fancy a chance at redemption in the second-tier of English football, after failing to make an impact on loan at Bristol City two seasons ago, where he failed to score.
