Despite talks over a new contract at Elland Road, Leeds United midfielder Jamie Shackleton is allegedly set to join Sheffield United on a free transfer this week.
Daniel Farke is poised to welcome back the first batch of his Leeds squad for pre-season on Monday, but a few players will be missing due to transfers.
The club’s retained list showed that Sam Byram will stay for another year under his former Norwich City manager, while the club was in talks with two others about potential extensions.
Jamie Shackleton to reject Leeds contract and join Sheffield United
Jamie Shackleton is one of two players with whom the club has confirmed conversations about extending his contract at Elland Road.
After breaking through under Marcelo Bielsa in 2018, Shackleton’s contract is set to expire on June 30 (Sunday), with no clear update on his decision on that alleged offer.
However, Football Insider has released a crucial update on his future, announcing that he has agreed to join Sheffield United on a free transfer.
The Blades are returning to the Championship after a disappointing season in the Premier League, with Chris Wilder eager to rebuild the squad ahead of a promotion push.
If Shackleton left, Leeds will not miss him at all.
Farke was anxious to emphasise Shackleton’s importance at the start of last season, but the reality is that he was only playing because Leeds had no other options.
Except for a few cameos, he was mostly out of the picture until Leeds’ depth improved after a difficult start.
His injury record is dismal, and he was never a true standout performer, even if he was extremely dedicated to the cause last season.
The Blades are adding depth to their squad, but he is not a signing that will cause shockwaves in the Championship promotion chase.
