3 wing-back replacements Luton Town could consider if Fulham strengthen their interest in James Bree

James Bree has emerged as one of Luton Town’s most important players in recent seasons, providing both a solid defensive service and an attacking threat, predominantly from set-pieces.

During a time when the Hatters have been short of defensive options, with backline injuries becoming far too common, the 25-year-old has been a source of dependability for the Hatters.

The full-back, who has been given more attacking responsibilities under new boss Rob Edwards, has also had to be drafted into Luton’s back three on occasions.

Showing a good level of versatility and adaptability when tasked with operating in a role that is now becoming increasingly familiar, that just adds to his importance at Kenilworth Road.

However, Premier League club Fulham are keeping an eye on the full-back this January, as per a report from the Daily Mail.

The report suggests that Arsenal’s Cedric Soares is the club’s number one target and if they are unable to get that deal over the line, Bree as well as Max Aarons and Danny McNamara are being considered.

It does seem unlikely that a move for the 25-year-old does come to fruition during this month but if it does, and in the spirit of being as proactive as the Luton hierarchy, here, are three potential Bree replacements that could be considered…

Jack Stacey

Jack Stacey enjoyed a mightily impressive couple of seasons with the Hatters, with his stint coinciding with back-to-back promotions from League Two to the Championship.

Particularly influential during the League One-winning season, Stacey’s marauding runs down the right flank and subsequent quality in the final third proved too hot to handle in the third-tier of English football.

With Bournemouth plying their trade in the Premier League once again, the flying full-back has been restricted to just 202 minutes of top-flight action.

Putting aside any romance of a Stacey return, if Bree was to depart, the 26-year-old’s direct running and end-product would make him an ideal candidate for the right-wing-back role.

Regan Poole

One of Bree’s most important traits is his versatility and that has proven vital during various points of this campaign.

Regan Poole would represent a similar kind of option, with the Lincoln City man able to operate as a right-sided centre-back, a full-back in a solid four and as a wing-back in the current system that Rob Edwards have deployed.

The Hatters have previously been linked with a move for the 24-year-old, who spent time at Manchester United during his development, however, with Poole’s contract running out in the summer, the Bedfordshire club may opt to wait to sign the young defender.

Cody Drameh

Cody Drameh is an exciting prospect progressing through at Leeds United, although opportunities in the first team have been rather limited for the 21-year-old.

Enjoying a productive loan spell with Cardiff City last time out, the England U21 international is hot property this January, with it being unclear what his future at Elland Road looks like.

A pacey, technically-gifted right-sided player, who can operate as a wing-back and out wide as part of a solid four, the Hatters could consider Drameh if Bree is to depart and if Leeds opt to hold on to the defender.