Here are your Leeds United transfer news and rumours on Wednesday, February 1.
European rivals given 'priority' over Nicolo Zaniolo summer move despite Leeds link
Despite all the links and rumours over the past few days, it appears as though Nicolo Zaniolo will be staying with Roma in Italy and won't find himself a move away from the club.
Leeds United were one of many teams linked with the 23-year-old who has been vocal about wanting a deal elsewhere after refusing to negotiate a new contract.
However, according to Italian outlet Calciomercato (via Inside Futbol), he'll be staying at Roma until the end of the season after which it's believed that their Serie A rivals AC Milan will be given a 'priority move', ahead of the Whites despite all the talks between the two sides.
Cherry on Leeds United's January cake still to come with one fly in ointment to address
Tens of millions may have been committed on Max Wober, Georginio Rutter and Weston McKennie (in the summer) and stolen the main headlines, but the Leeds United cherry on January’s cake may just be an exit. Less than six weeks after many fans were left scratching their heads over Diego Llorente’s contract extension, the centre-back is out the door.
Until his nadir at Brentford in September, when fit, the Spain international has generally proven a regular starter for the Whites since his arrival in September 2020. And yet, despite the faith of his head coaches, the terraces have found it hard to trust him in defence.
The logic of giving an inconsistent defender a contract extension which would take him to the eve of his 33rd birthday was lost on many last month. Of all the players heading for June 2024 contract expiries, Llorente was a long way down the list of priorities for extension.
What must happen for Weston McKennie's Leeds United move to be made permanent
One of the highlights of the transfer window for Leeds United will be securing a loan deal for Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie. The USA international has been vocal about how excited he is to be playing for the Whites and brings another option into manager Jesse Marsch's dressing room.
McKennie is the third American addition to the squad this season after 'partner-in-crime' Tyler Adams and World Cup teammate Brenden Aaronson arrived in the summer, and highlights further US involvement in the club, with the 24-year-old pictured next to Adams as he held up his shirt for the press.
The midfielder seems to be comfortable at his new club but he can't get his feet under the table because the deal isn't a permanent one. It is indeed just a loan move, although that could quickly change.
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