Leeds United can officially cross one of their attacking targets off the list of potential signings.
The Whites have been on the lookout for another winger for almost two weeks now and are seemingly no closer to getting one over the line.
Leeds United can officially cross one of their attacking targets off the list of potential signings.
The Whites have been on the lookout for another winger for almost two weeks now and are seemingly no closer to getting one over the line.
That is despite Leeds briefing the media they had replacements lined up and ready to go once Crysencio Summerville departed, which officially happened 13 days ago.
Daniel Farke has ramped up the pressure on the 49ers to get some deals done, with his squad now looking even more threadbare than last week following Georginio Rutter’s move to Brighton.
It is likely that either a number of youngsters, or second goalkeeper, will have to be on the bench for the trip to West Bromwich Albion.
Jesurun Rak-Sakyi explains Leeds snub
Leeds have so far kept cards close to their chest regarding who they want to sign, but it is becoming increasingly clear they are struggling.
Norwich City’s Jonathan Rowe is a player of interest but after a £7 million enquiry was knocked back, progress has been limited. Marseille are also keen, which is believed to be Rowe’s preferred destination.
Alongside Rowe, Crystal Palace’s Jesurun Rak-Sakyi is a player Leeds had also been chasing, but have officially been beaten in the race by Sheffield United.
Despite Palace’s preference for a loan, Leeds made a £15 million offer to sign Rak-Sakyi permanently last weekend, but were knocked back.
In talks with Rak-Sakyi and his agent, Leeds always felt as though the Blades was his favoured destination, and in an interview with the Sheffield Star, the 21-year-old has explained why.
He said: “The plan that the gaffer had for me when we spoke was good to hear, and that was why I decided to come. It was my first choice. I didn’t take in the outside noise, when I spoke to the gaffer I knew it was the right place for me.
“I want to play more football. I missed a lot last year through injury but this is about me getting out and playing as many games as I can. The fans will see me work hard for the team, I’m a player who likes to express myself, get on the ball and make things happen for the team.”
What Daniel Farke said about loans amid Rak-Sakyi snub
Unfortunately Leeds’ problem when it comes to landing Premier League loans is their inability to offer guaranteed game time like other clubs.
Given how small Leeds’ squad is, that is fairly difficult to understand. However, in his pre-Middlesbrough press conference on Tuesday, Farke explained why.
He said: “Yes, but if you ask me, a permanent signing is always better because the player is then fully committed and our player to develop. Loan market can be tricky. Some players are not guaranteed to play, which makes it difficult.
“Prem loans come here to get game time. If you cannot guarantee, a loan does not make sense for some players. Would prefer a permanent signing because they are committed through difficult phases. Loan market is an option and we will not fall asleep.
“We have a strong squad, so sometimes a you can’t guarantee minutes. As long as I am in charge, this will always be the case. For me, it’s not about salaries, CVs or transfer sums, or how highly a player is valued on Transfermarkt.
“Names are not important but what you deliver on the training pitch, in games, what you show in the dressing room. It’s never a guarantee whoever I bring in that he plays.”