ESPN pundit Alejandro Moreno has questioned why Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie would want to leave The Old Lady to join Leeds United – amid reports the USA star has agreed personal terms over a move to Elland Road.
McKennie, 24, has emerged as a Leeds target in the final few days of the transfer window. A teammate of Tyler Adams and Brenden Aaronson at the World Cup in Qatar, McKennie is available to go. Leeds are said to have made an offer.
Sky Italy reporter Gianluca Di Marzio says Leeds have tabled £24.6million to sign McKennie. Juventus want a fee of £30.8million – a difference of slightly over £6million. But there is a confidence that a deal can be reached this month.
McKennie does remain first choice at Juventus and continues to start most games. But, to partner his childhood friend in midfield at Leeds is likely to be tempting. ESPN pundit and ex-MLS star Moreno questioned why he would join us.
“On paper, I like the fact Leeds are looking at McKennie. But from the perspective of the player, what happens if Leeds, who have been struggling, and are in a relegation battle, what happened if Leeds don’t stay up?” Moreno said.
“What if Marsch leaves? In the long-term, do I want this connection with Marsch to live on? I would be very careful. Juventus to Leeds is a step down. Whatever mess they’ve got, it is still a step down. Think about this very carefully.”
ESPN pundit questions McKennie leaving Juventus to join Leeds
What Moreno has missed, is that the style of Leeds suits him so much more. The lure of the Premier League, too. McKennie is a Premier League player. The laid-back, methodical style of Juventus is holding the USA midfielder back.
Leeds are still a massive club and while it cannot be denied that Juventus are bigger, it is hardly a Bournemouth he is joining. McKennie would be a sensational signing for Leeds and fans would love him. It is a big decision for McKennie.
