When it comes to the futures of several returning loanees this summer, Leeds United has to start from nothing.
Following relegation just over a year ago, Leeds lost eight first-team players on loan due to terms written into their contracts by previous owners.
Only Luis Sinisterra and Robin Koch have secured permanent exits from that group, leaving six players set to return to Elland Road this summer.
Having said that, Paraag Marathe believes Leeds are in a better position this time around, with only two of the six able to move on loan again.
Jack Harrison is undoubtedly one of them, and it appears that he will return to Everton. Marc Roca is thought to be the other one, with his return to Real Betis all but certain.
Transfer insider provides an update on Max Wober’s future at Leeds.
With all of this in mind, Leeds are now in a position to sell four of their loan players if they desire.
However, that will be determined completely by the level of interest they can generate. Union Berlin will not make Brenden Aaronson’s stay permanent, thus he will have to stay in Leeds or be sold at a significant loss.
AS Roma are currently debating whether to sign Diego Llorente on a permanent basis, but Rasmus Kristensen will return, with no indication of any other interest.
That leaves defender Max Wober, who, despite having a strong season, appears increasingly unlikely to return to Borussia Monchengladbach permanently.
Gladbach are unable to meet Leeds’ £14.5 million asking price. However, according to transfer insider Graeme Bailey, it shouldn’t matter too much because there are plenty of Bundesliga clubs interested in signing him.
Speaking exclusively to LeedsUnited.News, he said: “I believe Wober will find another Bundesliga team to take him on loan, and possibly buy him. He is a good player and too talented for the Championship, therefore I don’t think there will be any problems with him.”
What has Wober stated regarding his future with Leeds?
Wober is currently overseas on international service, preparing to represent Austria at the 2017 European Championship in Germany.
Wober was asked about his future at club level in an interview last week, but he insisted on deferring that until after the tournament.
He stated: “My goal was to answer the club question before the Euros. But that’s what it is now. I told my manager that he didn’t need to call or tell me anything for the following four weeks. I’d like to play in the Euros now. After that, we’ll see where things go.
“I only found out about [Red Bull supporting Leeds] from the media. I’m now 26 years old and no longer fit Salzburg’s description. On the other hand, an experienced player could help them.
“It will also depend on their words. However, they will most likely have to deal with the playoff setback for a week or two. We’ll see how they want to position themselves and whether I fit into their goals.
“If you’re constantly in communication with the management, you’ll naturally start thinking about it, seek for an apartment, plan the relocation, and discuss it with your family and girlfriend. I simply want to block it out and stop worrying about it.
“The Euros were a career highlight for me. My first international match and Champions League game will only be surpassed by the European Championship. If I’m given the opportunity to play, I intend to fully enjoy it.”
