Your Leeds United transfer round-up for Thursday, September 15.
Gakpo price could rocket
The Athletic suggest Leeds may struggle to attract Cody Gakpo in January. The Whites saw a bid of around £40million knocked back for the talented Dutchman before setting their sights on Luis Sinisterra.
Now, reporter Phil Hay has hinted that an impressive World Cup may price Leeds out of a move. Champions League clubs will be on high alert if he takes the Qatar finals by storm.
“Leeds are talking about trying again with Gakpo in January,” he said. “But they have to be realistic about the fact his value will rise if he has a good domestic season with PSV Eindhoven and shines at the World Cup with the Netherlands.
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“Should that happen, his sights are likely to turn to a higher level of competition than Leeds can offer — regular Champions League football in other words — and Leeds might find that he is beyond their reach.
Harrison ‘talks’
The same outlet claims Leeds are “planning talks” with Jack Harrison to stave off interest from rival Premier League clubs. Newcastle United were interested in the winger throughout the summer, with reports suggesting two bids were rejected.
Losing star duo Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha meant the Whites were playing hardball over potentially selling another key player. The report claims extending Harrison’s contract remains a priority as he will have just one year left on his deal at the end of the season.
Since arriving from Manchester City in 2018, the 25-year-old has emerged as one of the top performers for Leeds.
Investment ‘coming in’
Give Me Sport reporter Dean Jones believes Jesse Marsch will continue to “use his links” as Leeds boss. An influx of talent from across the pond have already impressed at Elland Road, with Brenden Aaronson and Tyler Adams arriving in the summer.
The US market is niche and only appears to be being exploited by Leeds at present. Jones also expects investment to arrive at Elland Road in the coming years once the San Francisco 49ers control 100% of the club.
“There is no doubt that Jesse Marsch can use his links from the past to the benefit of Leeds,” he said.
“He’s part of a really big project and I think we should remember that in terms of the way everything’s going to unfold at Leeds in the next few years. There’s lots of potential investment coming in.”
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