Leeds make Chelsea´s Baker first signing of Bielsa era

Chelsea midfielder Lewis Baker has joined Leeds United on a season-long loan, becoming the first signing since Marcelo Bielsa’s appointment as coach.

The former England Under-21 international had spells at Sheffield Wednesday, MK Dons and Vitesse, where he won the KNVB Cup in his second campaign.

Baker spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough, making 14 appearances in all competitions and scoring two goals, and is excited to play under former Argentina and Chile boss Bielsa.

“About a couple of weeks ago I came over, they showed me the plan, showed me what they want to do for next season. It’s a massive club with amazing history, so it’s a good opportunity for me,” he told LUTV.

| After joining the club on loan from Chelsea, midfielder @lew_baker chats to LUTV about the move pic.twitter.com/RDuuZiAEzn

— Leeds United (@LUFC) June 30, 2018

“The director of football [Victor Orta] spoke to me at length on how they want to play this season and it sounded like a great opportunity for me.

“If you know your football then you know he’s [Bielsa] a massive manager, managed some of the best players in the world. He’s got good aspirations this season.

“Depending how this season goes we want to definitely challenge and get promotion.”