Leeds United has lost another Thorp Arch academy product, Archie Gray, to Tottenham Hotspur after a medical at a Championship competitor on Wednesday.
Gray, 18, joined Tottenham from Leeds on Tuesday in a transaction worth £40 million, with a quarter of that going to Joe Rodon, the Welshman returning permanently to the delight of fans.
Many players have departed the club, but Leeds has yet to disclose what is happening with Jamie Shackleton, Liam Cooper, and Cody Drameh. The retained list showed that Leeds had offered all three players new contracts.
However, on Sunday, their contracts expired, making them technically free agents. Shackleton battled for playing time last season, despite Ross McCormack calling the versatile ace “fantastic” and being a great supporter of his.
Farke even hinted at a new deal for Shackleton earlier this season, but now he’s heading to a League competitor.
Sheffield United are closing in on a deal for a Leeds player.
Sheffield United was said to be closing close on a deal for Shackleton earlier this week, and now Graham Smyth of the Yorkshire Evening Post reports that Shackleton has snubbed Leeds.
According to Smyth, the midfielder had a medical at Chris Wilder’s side on Wednesday and is now set to sign permanently on a free transfer for The Blades, who are expected to challenge for promotion.
Shackleton will play at Elland Road on October 19, followed by a visit to Bramall Lane on February 22. Shackleton’s signing with the Blades appears to be imminent.
Right move for Shackleton at this stage of his career.
Farke admires Shackleton and believes he is an ideal player to have on the bench. Whether it’s due of his versatility, natural fitness, or attitude despite his status as an Elland Road periphery player.
Now 24, Shackleton should be playing more than a few games. He is at the point in his career when he has to be first choice, and a transfer to Sheffield United could help him achieve that.
