Phil Hay has told the latest episode of The Square Ball podcast that the noises regarding the future of Leeds striker Georginio Rutter are still that he will remain at Elland Road this summer – despite Hoffenheim and Freiburg reports.
Rutter, 21, struggled since his club-record move from Hoffenheim to Leeds in January. He managed just 13 outings, starting once in the Premier League. He failed to score, and laid on one assist – our last goal of the 22-23 season.
A recent report from German newspaper Bild suggested that Hoffenheim were looking at a loan return for Rutter this season. He won their Goal of the Season award. Bild then say Freiburg are also considering a move for Rutter.
Hay was asked by Michael Normanton over the weekend, whether he thought Rutter would be at Elland Road next season. He responded by saying that despite the links with Hoffenheim, the noises are still the same – he will stay.
“The indication that I was getting at the start of the season was that Rutter would stay. Yeah. That he was one that they really wanted to keep,” The Athletic’s Leeds reporter Hay told The Square Ball podcast, when talking Rutter.
“I know there’s been a bit of talk about Hoffenheim being interested in signing him on loan, again. The message still seems to be that Rutter might stick around. I do think a season in the Championship might be really good for him.”
Hay: Noises are Rutter will remain at Leeds despite Hoffenheim reports
Hay has previously reported that Rutter is likely to remain at Leeds, having been informed of such following the final day of the season loss to Spurs. Now, he says that he still expects Rutter to stay – despite the reports of an exit.
What should Leeds do if an offer comes in? Rutter did show glimpses of quality but he needs to be given regular game time. He will not want to be in the second tier, but has time. If given the chance to start, he could sparkle.
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