According to David Ornstein, Leeds United forward Georginio Rutter will now determine his future after Brighton activated his contract’s £40 million release clause.
The Athletic journalist claimed on August 14 that the Premier League club had previously rejected two proposals for the French attacker.
The 22-year-old’s deal at Elland Road expires in the summer of 2028.
Ornstein wrote on X that Brighton & Hove Albion had activated a £40 million release clause in Leeds United forward Georginio Rutter’s contract. #BHAFC saw £29 million and £35 million offers rejected today before meeting the parameters of the #LUFC departure mechanism. The 22-year-old must now make a decision.
Georginio Rutter’s departure will undoubtedly affect Leeds United.
Rutter’s probable move from Elland Road, following Brighton’s activation of his £40 million release clause, might have a huge influence on the team.
After being a vital creative force in Leeds’ attack, particularly in the Championship, where he scored six goals and assisted fifteen times last season, his departure would leave a vacuum in midfield creativity and goal-scoring threat.
His departure means Leeds loses one of their most dynamic players, whose flair and ability to break down defences were critical under Daniel Farke.
This transaction, which follows the exits of Archie Gray and Crysencio Summerville, significantly depletes a squad already under financial strain owing to relegation.
The loss of Rutter has an impact not only on on-field performance, but also on morale, as he had become a fan favorite and a key figure in the team’s recovery.
His departure may entail a tactical change or a scramble in the transfer market to find a successor, possibly at a higher cost or of lower quality, jeopardising Leeds’ chances of regaining promotion to the Premier League.
