Leeds United continue to monitor their long-term transfer target John Swift...

What's the word?

That's according to reliable journalist Pete O'Rourke, who delivered a fresh claim on the Yorkshire giants' interest in the Reading playmaker to GIVEMESPORT earlier this week.

"They've been watching him for a long, long time now," he said. "He's obviously somebody that they think can fit the profile of the type of player that Marcelo Bielsa does like at his disposal."

Back in November, The Sheffield Star claimed that the Whites would rival fellow Premier League sides Wolverhampton Wanderers and Burnley for his signature this winter.

Meanwhile, The Athletic's Phil Hay has previously backed the addition of a midfield maestro, even suggesting that Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa likes the look of Swift.

“I can definitely see the value in signing a centre mid in the window, partly to help this season but partly to create one less job for the summer window (which will be far more active). [It] was interesting to see John Swift linked over the weekend because Swift is someone Bielsa quietly admires."

January swoop?

Despite the Royal's league struggles, Swift has been one of the stars of the Championship so far this season and indeed, he rates out as the biggest creator.

As per WhoScored, he leads the goal-creating charts with nine assists and also tops the charts for key passes per game (2.9). He has also provided eight goals, which is the most of any central midfielder in the second-flight, too.

Swift's presence would surely be instantly felt at Elland Road, considering he has bagged the same number of goals as United's top goalscorer, Raphinha (eight), who is the only player to score more than twice in the Premier League.

Similarly, none of Bielsa's current squad have managed more than two assists either.

The fact that the Argentinian head coach admires him is encouraging and should be enough for director of football Victor Orta and chairman Andrea Radrizzani to pull the trigger this month.

In doing so, they could well secure their manager a dream signing and one that would ultimately help the struggling Yorkshiremen in abundance.

It's also believed that his asking price has dropped below a previously sought-after £7m, which makes him of incredible value - a bargain, really.

The Reading star, who has been dubbed a "grafter" and as being "super-talented in the past, would be an ideal mid-season signing for Bielsa. United's hierarchy must look to seal his signature before Deadline Day on January 31st.

Those around west Yorkshire should be absolutely buzzing by the prospects of signing Swift, especially after O'Rourke's latest claim.

AND in other news, Leeds eye swoop for "talented" 20 y/o who's "very quick", he could be Bielsa's new Alioski...