It’s really happening: A deal for Kyle Bartley is reportedly in the works

Okay everyone, try not to get too excited.

One of the biggest mistakes of the summer transfer window was the lack of a proven central defender being brought into Leeds to replace the departed Kyle Bartley, who was recalled to his parent club, Swansea City. And while Matthew Pennington was brought in from Everton, the young defender has failed to make a significant impact while at Leeds United.

It appears, however, that Leeds have decided to replace Kyle Bartley two transfer windows too late, but with what has to be a fantastic development for fans of the club. Leeds are reportedly in talks with Swansea to make a permanent move for Bartley during this upcoming transfer window.

Bartley hasn’t had a great season for Swansea, as he suffered a knee injury in August, and didn’t feature in the squad until January. He’s only made four appearances in the Premier League this season. Swansea has also had a stressful season in the Premier League, as the club has struggled around the relegation zone for much of the season.

Bartley is reportedly open to a move back to Leeds, where he and Pontus Jansson formed one of the best centre-back partnerships in the Championship during the 2016-17 season. Not only has the club missed his commanding presence in the backline, Jansson hasn’t been nearly as consistent without Bartley as his partner in the back. Leeds have also sorely missed his leadership this past season, as the team often crumbled when things started to go sour during matches.

With some of the speculation surrounding the future of Pontus Jansson, hopefully a move for his former centre-back partner will help to convince the big Swede to stay at Elland Road, with an effort to recapture the magic that helped propel the club to the cusp of the playoffs and a shot at a return to the Premier League. Lots of rumours will be swirling around the club in the next few months, so let’s all hope this one turns out being one that comes true.