Alfie Gilchrist is one of several players who have been linked with a move to Leeds United this summer.
The Whites are apparently competing with Preston North End and Blackburn Rovers for Gilchrist, who is expected to leave Chelsea on loan.
Gilchrist broke into the first team at Chelsea last season, but with so much competition for defensive positions, he will struggle to get game time at Stamford Bridge next season.
Despite the two clubs’ long-standing rivalry, journalist Ben Jacobs suggested earlier this week that Gilchrist might be open to a summer loan move to Leeds.
He made one of his five starts for the Blues in all competitions against Leeds last season, a 3-2 FA Cup win in March.
Chelsea’s stance on loaning Gilchrist to Leeds has been disclosed.
Leeds plans to make stronger use of the Premier League loan market this summer, since it can benefit Championship sides aiming for promotion.
Joe Rodon, Djed Spence, Connor Roberts, and Jaidon Anthony were the four players who made temporary moves throughout last season, but only the former was truly successful.
Given Rodon’s talent, there is now Premier League interest in his services, therefore Leeds will need to consider alternative options if they are unable to bring him back.
Gilchrist appears to be one of the names Leeds are considering, although according to the Yorkshire Evening Post, a deal is unlikely.
According to the article, a’source’ at Chelsea has stated that they are hesitant to send him on loan to Leeds United due to concerns about his potential as a major player at Elland Road.
It is also reported that Leeds are not moving ahead with a move for Gilchrist at this moment, as other options are currently higher on their list of objectives.
Who would Leeds’ alternatives to Gilchrist be?
There is little doubt that Rodon is Leeds’ main objective at the back right now, and they have not given up hope of bringing him back.
However, if Leeds are unable to secure his return, it would be unjust to put the burden of being his replacement on someone as young and inexperienced as Gilchrist.
With that in mind, Swansea City’s Nathan Wood could be a viable choice. He is still young, with only a year left on his contract, and already has plenty of Championship experience.
Leeds could also do far worse than renew their January interest in Everton’s Ben Godfrey, who, like Gilchrist, can play both in the middle and on the right side of defence.
