play-off final

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.

Transfer news: Sunderland starlet wanted by EFL club ahead of Premier League 2 play-off final

26/05/2024 Raymond 0

On Sunday afternoon, Sunderland’s under-21 team will face Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League 2 play-off final in London, amidst ongoing transfer speculation involving some of their promising talents. Graeme Murty’s squad had a commendable season, securing ten victories and finishing seventh in the league standings, progressing to the play-off final with impressive performances against West Ham and Reading.

Alan Nixon reported that Sunderland’s left-back Oliver Bainbridge is attracting interest from Bradford City, while Halifax is interested in midfielder Caden Kelly on loan for the summer. However, Halifax’s manager, Chris Millington, recently denied any interest in Kelly, emphasizing their focus on developing their own young players.

Sunderland’s recent retained list revealed that Kelly will remain at the Academy of Light next season after the club triggered an option in his contract. Kelly, a former Manchester City player, has been pivotal in Sunderland’s successful under-21 campaign, contributing significantly to their performance as they prepare for the crucial match against Tottenham Hotspur.

Leeds United will have Archie Gray decision on their hands if Premier League not secured

25/05/2024 Raymond 0

Dan Bardell has indicated that Archie Gray’s future at Leeds United might be uncertain this summer if the team fails to secure promotion to the Premier League. Leeds is gearing up for a crucial Play-Off final against Southampton at Wembley on Sunday, May 26, with a win essential for promotion. If Daniel Farke’s squad remains in the Championship, they may need to raise £100 million through player sales to alleviate financial pressures.

Gray, a standout performer in the Championship this season, could attract significant offers, forcing Leeds to make a crucial decision. Bardell emphasized that Gray’s future largely hinges on Leeds’ promotion outcome, making the summer transfer window particularly interesting for the young talent.