Leeds United will have to make major decisions about the futures of many players this summer.
The Whites now have three players on loan at the club, six players out of contract, and a slew of others nearing the conclusion of their loan periods abroad.
The trio now at Elland Road on temporary deals are Jaidon Anthony, Joe Rodon, and Connor Roberts, and the first two’s futures appear to be very clear.
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has already stated that he wants Anthony to return to the club in pre-season, while Rodon’s permanent transfer from Tottenham is considered to be a matter of when rather than when.
However, for Roberts, the situation is significantly more murky. Leeds signed the 28-year-old on loan from Burnley for the remainder of the season, with no option to buy.
When he signed with the club, Roberts made it clear that he wanted to stay in Leeds for the long term. However, his future is uncertain, as is the league in which Burnley and Leeds will compete next season.
With that in mind, LeedsUnited.News spoke with transfer expert Graeme Bailey on the probability of Roberts joining Leeds permanently next season.
Roberts is unlikely to join Leeds on a permanent transfer this summer.
It is looking increasingly likely that Burnley will be a Championship club again next season, and so surely from their point of view, it would be a no brainer to keep him based on last year.
However, they may be powerless to stop him from leaving if he makes it clear Leeds is where he wants to be, and 49ers Enterprises stump up the money to buy him.
Bailey, though, says he does not anticipate Roberts to stay at Leeds long-term and ‘would be surprised’ if he was signed permanently.
He said: “I don’t see it particularly, especially if Kristensen ends up coming back. I believe Roberts has performed well; if he was available for a low fee, it is possible.
“You have squad players, but what does Roberts offer that Sam Byram does not?” It’s a tough decision, but to be honest, I don’t see him as a long-term Leeds player. I’d be startled if he entered.”
What Connor Roberts has said about joining Leeds permanently.
Roberts has only started one league game since his arrival on deadline day in January, but he has made an impression anyway.
His equaliser propelled Leeds to a stunning comeback victory over Leicester City. A week later, he set up Patrick Bamford to win Leeds a point against Huddersfield Town.
Clearly, he is eager to impress at Leeds, and here’s what he has said regarding the possibility of a permanent move.
Following his arrival, he stated, “It’s something I couldn’t refuse. Football is a strange game, so I’ll do my best to make a good impression both on and off the field, and perhaps in the future it will alter from a direct loan.
“For the time being, all I can do is come here and attempt to help. Being a bit-part player for Burnley this year has been a little disappointing.”
