Leeds United

Every Premier League and Championship free agent for Stoke City to consider so far this summer

02/06/2024 Raymond 0

The free agent market is attracting significant attention from both Premier League and Championship clubs, as managers and recruitment chiefs seek out bargains, gambles, and hidden gems. Stoke City has already initiated their summer activity by signing goalkeeper Viktor Johansson, taking advantage of a relegation release clause. Head coach Steven Schumacher and sporting director Jon Walters are focused on enhancing the first team squad by adding balance and quality, particularly seeking one or two strikers and a center-back.

Several Premier League clubs have yet to confirm their retained lists following the conclusion of the 2023/24 campaign. In the Championship, Cardiff City and Leeds United have also not published their lists. Below is a summary of the current group of players without a contract beyond June 30.

What ‘sources’ say Leeds United have told Joe Rodon about signing him permanently this summer

31/05/2024 Raymond 0

The future of Joe Rodon is a major concern for Leeds United this summer. Rodon completed his season-long loan from Tottenham Hotspur with his final game at Wembley, where Leeds lost 1-0 to Southampton in the play-off final. Without an option-to-buy clause in his loan deal, Leeds must now negotiate with Spurs to secure his permanent transfer. Rodon’s impressive performances, which contributed to Leeds achieving the second-best defensive record in the division, have made head coach Daniel Farke eager to retain him.

Leeds face a challenging transfer window as they aim to comply with the EFL’s PSR regulations, requiring the departure of key players to balance the books. Chairman Paraag Marathe has assured that funds will be available for new signings, and Red Bull’s minority investment in the club provides additional financial flexibility. Rodon has expressed a strong affinity for Leeds, and the club has communicated their intention to sign him permanently. However, with Premier League interest, including from Southampton, Rodon is currently on holiday contemplating his next move.

Report: Newcastle recently sent scouts to watch over Danish midfielder with 19 goals this season

26/05/2024 Raymond 0

While Newcastle United were dealing with a disappointing stint in Australia, Eddie Howe’s scouting team stayed closer to home, evaluating a player just north of the border. According to The Chronicle, Newcastle’s recruitment team was sent to observe Danish international Matt O’Riley of Celtic. O’Riley, despite his non-Danish name, has impressed significantly this season. In Celtic’s 3-2 victory over St Mirren, O’Riley’s standout performance was indicative of his season, where he accumulated 19 goals and 18 assists in 48 appearances across all competitions.

These impressive statistics are even more remarkable considering O’Riley is a midfielder, not a forward. His performances have attracted attention from several Premier League clubs, with Leicester City and Leeds United among his most notable admirers. Leeds is particularly keen, hoping to join Leicester in the Premier League after their play-off final against Southampton. If Newcastle decides to pursue O’Riley, they would likely outbid both Leicester and Leeds in terms of financial and career prospects.

Dom Matteo says £5m Leeds man is working ‘the hardest’ in training, yet to see the best of him

26/05/2024 Raymond 0

Dominic Matteo believes Leeds United fans have yet to see the full potential of Ilia Gruev, one of Daniel Farke’s signings, who has been working exceptionally hard in training since arriving at Elland Road. As Leeds prepares to face Southampton at Wembley on Sunday for a place in the Premier League, they must alter their approach after losing both previous encounters this season.

Gruev, who joined in January, has become a key player and is expected to be in the starting lineup. Matteo praises Gruev’s dedication, noting that despite not always being flashy, he excels at the fundamentals and has the potential to contribute more goals. One of the season’s highlights was Gruev’s superb free-kick, which led to a 4-0 victory over Norwich City, showcasing his quick decision-making and ability to perform under pressure.