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Republic of Ireland international defender Marc Wilson has been linked with a move to Leeds United after it appears that he is no longer in the plans of AFC Bournemouth. The 29 year old central defender, who can also play left back, spent six seasons at Stoke City before moving to Bournemouth last season before a loan move to West Bromwich Albion.
The Irish defender started his career at Portsmouth, going on loan to both Yeovil Town and Portsmouth while on the books at Portsmouth. He made two appearances for Yeovil Town in the 2006-06 season before moving to Bournemouth, then in League One, for the 2006-07 and the 2007-08 seasons, appearing 27 total games for the Cherries. He also briefly appeared for Luton Town during the 2007-8 season as well.
He made his debut for Portsmouth for the 2008-09 season while the club was in the Premier League. He made 36 appearances for them in the 2009-10 season when they were relegated and started the 2010-11 season at Pompey before a transfer to Stoke City.
Wilson spent the next six seasons at Stoke City, until he lost his regular place during the 2015-16 season. He made 178 total appearances for Stoke and broke into the Republic of Ireland squad while at Stoke as well, and went on to appear 25 times for his country. He was on the Euro 2016 squad for Ireland, but did not feature in the tournament. He would likely need to get first team football somewhere if he wishes to attempt to continue his Republic of Ireland career.
Wilson’s 2nd stay with Bournemouth hasn’t even really started, with the defender yet to play a Premier League match for the south coast club. He appeared in three Cup matches for the Cherries before being sent on loan to West Brom during the January transfer window last season, where he only made four league appearances for the Baggies.
Wilson is an experienced Premier League defender, even if his best days appear to be behind him. He would bring stability and experience to the defence, allowing Everton loanee Matthew Pennington to grow into the role of a starting Championship level defender rather than throwing the youngster to the wolves right away. This would be a great move for the club, and if the rumored price of £1 million is correct, an absolute steal in this market.