Phil Hay has provided his first detailed update on Leeds United’s transfer activity ahead of the summer.
Leeds will be able to officially begin signing players on Friday, and it promises to be a hectic period for both incomings and outgoings at Elland Road.
Daniel Farke and the recruitment team will have been preparing behind the scenes for the possibility that Leeds will not be promoted, and it is almost time to put their preparations into action.
Leeds did not recruit a single player until the third week of July last summer, and Paraag Marathe has already stated that they do not want a recurrence of this lethargic start to the window.
Ultimately, it proved costly to Leeds’ promotion chances, and with the pressure to go one better, Marathe has been adamant that they will have a good squad.
Hay provides an update on Leeds’ Joe Rodon chase.
So far, Leeds has been linked with a few of prospective additions, including Chelsea defender Alfie Gilchrist, who is said to be available on loan.
Leeds are also reportedly interested in Fulham attacker Bobby De Cordova-Reid, who is out of contract this month.
However, at this point in the transfer window, it is clear who their first-choice target is. After such an impressive loan term, £11 million man Joe Rodon must be brought back.
Rodon extended his contract with Tottenham until 2025 earlier this week, which could pave the way for another loan deal. Leeds have informed the Welshman that they want him back.
Ultimately, everything will rely on the economics and potential interest elsewhere, but in the latest episode of the Square Ball Podcast, Hay claims he is ‘100% positive’ Leeds are doing everything they can to ensure his return.
He stated, “I am certain they would take Rodon back if they can. Leeds is facing financial difficulties; certainly, they will bring in money, but how much they can spend on fees will be determined by what they receive from players that depart.
“It is more financially advantageous to be able to do Rodon on loan if possible. I’m not sure what Rodon’s alternatives are, but he appeared comfortable here, and this has been one of his greatest seasons in terms of personal performance. “That would make sense.”
What Rodon has stated about returning to Leeds.
Rodon was asked about the possibility of joining Leeds in the week coming up to the play-off final, and he certainly did not rule it out.
The Wales international says Leeds has become a’second home’ for him, but he still wants to play at the top level.
He stated, “It would be nice to have stability and know where I stand next season.” I’ve always wanted to play at the highest level, and maybe I’ll be able to do so with Leeds, but anything can happen.
“I don’t want to look too far ahead, but I love life here, and Leeds feels like a second home to me now. I’m simply focused on doing my best and getting this club back to where it belongs.”
