Long-term Leeds United target Ryan Kent could be rapidly moving up the Elland Road wish list with the Rangers winger one of the few live options remaining for the Premier League side.
Boss Jesse Marsch had been keen to add a wide player when deadline day kicked off and PSV Eindhoven star Cody Gakpo topped the agenda, with director of football Victor Orta in the Netherlands on Wednesday as he looked to finalise a deal for the Dutch international. However, reports suggest that the Eredivise side have shut the door on any summer exit with Southampton also seemingly keen on a move.
Marseille forward Bamba Dieng was plan B in Yorkshire, with a £10million move for the winger agreed as he prepared to arrive in England to rubber stamp a move. But that deal has now been hijacked by OGC Nice, with transfer guru Fabrizio Romano reporting United have ended their interest in Dieng after his agent snubbed the deal while in the airport.
Wide man Dan James looks set to be heading on loan to Fulham, shifting the focus of the Elland Road recruitment team to adding another winger. Reports south of the border suggested Leeds are considering reigniting their interest in Ryan Kent.
The 25-year-old from has entered the final 12 months of his current deal and is yet to strike an agreement over extended terms with Gio van Bronckhorst's side. Leeds have failed bids in the past with the Elland Road side keen admirers of the former Liverpool man.
But Rangers could be left with a stick or twist decision should Leeds come knocking before midnight on September 1. Kent could agree a pre-contract move away from Ibrox for free in January, but the club had previously been confident of negotiating a new deal.
When commenting on Alfredo Morelos and Kent after they entered the final year of their contracts, Van Bronckhorst said: “We know the quality both Morelos and Kent bring to the team. They have been part of the squad for many years now.
"Ryan’s qualities are on a high level. Talks with him to extend his contrast are also happening at the moment. It’s the same with Alfredo.
“Hopefully they will sign new contracts that will keep them at Ibrox for longer than this season. Both of them love being at this club. They are important players who are loved by everyone involved in the squad and the fans."
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