Leeds United made a surprising loan approach for a Nottingham Forest defender in January, and the Premier League club is now willing to sell him for £4 million.
Leeds only signed Connor Roberts on loan from Burnley in January, but they were looking for a centre-back near the end of the window, with Pascal Struijk injured and out till now.
Due to a shortage of centre-back signings, Leeds moved Ethan Ampadu to defence with Joe Rodon. It appeared to be a frustrating one at the time, given Ampadu’s performance in midfield.
But, as time passed, Ampadu shined in defense alongside Rodon, and Ilia Gruev replaced Ampadu in the middle of the park as if nothing had happened, and at times, Gruev was almost as good.
Leeds were connected with Forest’s Joe Worrall during the January transfer window, and sources said that the Whites made a loan approach to bring the centre-back to Elland Road until the end of the season.
Worrall has subsequently been loaned to Turkish SuperLig giants Besiktas, where he has performed admirably, but he remains on Forest’s roster. Here’s a new update on his future.
Forest are eager to cash in on Joe Worrall amid Leeds’ proposal in January.
Worrall is a leader, having been described as “excellent” by Gary McAllister while on loan at Rangers. Prior to his loan, he was Forest’s club captain, and he may stay so in the summer if he does not leave under Nuno.
However, he is expected to be on his way, having been loaned out to Besiktas in January. The Sun’s Alan Nixon writes on his Patreon channel that Forest are willing to sell Worrall for a cheap £4 million.
A decision will be made on whether he will make a permanent move to Besiktas at the conclusion of the season, with Besiktas likely to play in the Turkish Cup final, while Sheffield United’s Chris Wilder is interested.
Should Leeds reconsider their move for Worrall this summer?
Well, it could depend on promotion. Worrall has performed well in the Premier League at times with Forest, but he is far more convincing as a Championship centre-back. If Leeds fails to rise, there is no doubt.
A player with extensive Championship experience, a leader, leaves for £4 million. If Leeds continue in the second tier, it’s an absolute no-brainer, with Liam Cooper certain to leave and a permanent deal for Joe Rodon unlikely.
However, promotion would result in Rodon signing on a permanent basis, giving Daniel Farke’s side more choices. Sheffield United’s interest indicates that they believe he is a good addition for a Championship club.
