Leeds United are now ‘highly unlikely’ to offer a new deal to Lewis Bate.
That is according to Leeds Live, who suggest at this point of the season it is difficult to see Bate being offered fresh terms despite his contract set to expire at the end of the current campaign.
Bate had been expected to secure a loan move during the summer having seen an injury cut short an impressive spell at League One side Oxford United, which saw their former manager Karl Robinson label him as a ‘magician’ and one of the best players he’s worked with.
However, like many of Leeds‘ youngsters, Bate still remains at the club but very much on the periphery of the first team, meaning the only minutes he is likely to receive are in the U21s.
It is said the only thing that could change Leeds’ current stance on a new deal is if Bate impresses enough in training ahead of the January window.
Leeds ‘highly unlikely’ to offer Bate new deal
Bate currently finds himself behind several players in the pecking order for a place in midfield, particularly after Leeds’ late flurry of transfer activity.
Ethan Ampadu, Archie Gray, Glen Kamara and Ilia Gruev are very much Daniel Farke’s first choice options, while Darko Gyabi and even Jamie Shackleton provide additional cover there.
It is a shame it has not worked out for Bate as he arrived with a bucket load of potential from Chelsea back in 2021, and his talent is always evident whenever he plays.
However, there is a huge question mark as to whether he has the physicality to play at the top level of senior football which is what has seemingly held him back.
If Leeds are not going to offer him a new deal, the most likely scenario feels like a permanent January exit for some sort of nominal fee.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
