Before last night’s Euro U21 clash between Sweden and England the game was dubbed an audition in the Swedish media. One of those players expected to impress was long term Leeds United target Linus Wahlqvist, but the IFK defender had a night to forget.
Swedes have gone on to play in major leagues after impressing in the competition, and Wahlqvist was one of the current team tipped for a move to a foreign club after the tournament.
Linked with Leeds United, Fiorentina, and Valencia in recent months the 20-year-old was brought back down from the senior team to help in Sweden’s U21 campaign this summer.
However, this didn’t go to plan for Wahlqvist after the youngster was given the opportunity to take all three points via the penalty sport. The IFK star was denied by Everton new signing Jordan Pickford, and Sweden had to be content with just a point. The left back didn’t have a terrible game, but he was still ranked one of the lowest in the Sweden team.
There’s particular annoyance with Wahlqvist in Sweden because it looks like he tried a Panenka and made a mess of it. In fact, the Swedish press and pundits are furious, it’s all going quite over the top.
Leeds United have already tried to sign the young defender, making an approach for Wahlqvist last summer. Throughout this season Leeds United have continued to be linked with the youngster in the Swedish media, and it’s possible they’ll again show interest in the next window despite Garry Monk leaving the club.
Last week Wahlqvist told the Swedish press he’s ready to make the next step in his career, but Leeds United could face competition from other clubs
