The loan release clause that enables Jack Harrison to return to Everton from Leeds United without any fee this summer has been termed “egregious” by Graham Smyth. On June 19, Smyth, the chief football writer for the Yorkshire Evening Post, expressed his disapproval of this clause on X. This clause allows Harrison to join Everton on loan for a second consecutive season without Leeds receiving a loan fee. However, Everton will cover 100 percent of Harrison’s wages for the 2024-25 season.
In response to a report by his colleague Joe Donnohue, Smyth remarked: “Fully expected, of course, but of all the loan clauses handed out this one was surely the most egregious.” This statement underscores the unusual nature of the agreement, which is not in line with common practices where clubs typically receive a loan fee.
While the deal offers some benefits for all involved – Everton regains an experienced player, Leeds is relieved of wage obligations for the year, and Harrison remains in the Premier League – Leeds misses out on the typical loan fee. The continuous availability of Harrison for loans has been interpreted as a strategy by former sporting director Victor Orta to secure the player’s contract renewal amid the threat of relegation in April 2023.
Although the clause has been criticized, it was anticipated by Leeds, as Harrison was not expected to fit into Daniel Farke’s plans for the upcoming season and preferred to stay at Goodison Park. Now, Farke and Leeds’ recruitment team will focus on building a squad capable of competing for promotion in the 2024-25 season, managing Harrison’s situation among other loanees.
In related Leeds news, the club has been advised to acquire a star player from the Championship on a free transfer.