Leeds United target has now been told by his manager he’s not leaving in January

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Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk has told Leeds United target Kerem Aktürkoğlu he will not be leaving in January.

It was reported earlier this week that Leeds have been in ‘frequent talks’ with their rivals over a deal for the 25-year-old, though will face competition from Serie A and Champions League last-16 side Lazio.

More reports from Turkey today then suggested that Leeds are willing to meet Galatasaray’s asking price of just under £13 million, but it would appear any hopes of getting a deal done are over.

According to Beyaz Gazete, Buruk has told both Aktürkoğlu and Sacha Boey that they will have to wait until the end of the season to secure a move, with the League title and Europa League still up for grabs.

He is reported to have said: “We have big goals. I will need you in the league and in Europe. Wait until the end of the season.” 

Not a major loss for Leeds

Having already scored seven goals and provided eight assists this season, Aktürkoğlu is quite clearly a good player beyond that of the Championship.

However, he is just not what Leeds need next month with his strongest position on the left-wing, where Crysencio Summerville has shone so brightly all season.

Spending that sort of money on a position that isn’t needed as a Championship club would be daft, particularly when there are areas such as attacking midfield and left-back that are far more pressing.

The funds would certainly be put to better use on a creative number 10, who can unlock tight defences with their passing ability, given recent struggles to break down low blocks.

One positive that can be taken from this is that Leeds may well have a decent chunk of cash to spend, which could be the boost needed in their quest for automatic promotion.