Italian outlet CalcioMercato report that the “endless crisis” at Leeds United has forced Juventus to find a “new solution” when it comes to Weston McKennie – with Premier League survival looking more and more unlikely.
McKennie, 24, joined Leeds in January on loan. A move that the Italian report claims would be made permanent, if the Whites managed to remain in the Premier League. A fee of £30m was agreed, plus a further £4m in bonuses.
But with just three Premier League games left to play, and Leeds sitting in 19th place, chances of survival look incredibly unlikely. The Whites have fallen into the bottom three after a 2-1 loss to Manchester City on Saturday.
Leeds have Newcastle to play on Saturday and while we have home advantage, the Toon are flying high in third place. Then, a trip to West Ham – who may rest players with their European semi-final second leg taking place.
Finally, hosting Spurs. Three tough-looking fixtures, in which Leeds really need at least four points to stand any chance of survival. McKennie is likely to be a crucial part of these next three games, starting in Sam Allardyce’s first.
Leeds crisis forcing Juventus to find new solution for McKennie
But with survival now looking incredibly unlikely – and what CM describe as a ‘crisis’ at Elland Road – Juventus will have to find another solution for McKennie. The £34m fee they hoped on gaining for McKennie is in tatters.
The report states that Juventus have started to find a ‘new solution’ for McKennie ahead of the summer window. His future at Juventus is bleak, as it is at Leeds if the club do not stay up. Plenty around Europe are likely to be keen.
But with McKennie boasting plenty of Premier League suitors before his move to Elland Road, his form in the top tier of English football at Elland Road might put other clubs off. Juventus may even have to accept a lower figure.
