Italian outlet Il Bianconero claim Leeds United have a “gentleman’s agreement” in place with Juventus that if the club avoid relegation to the Championship – then they will complete a permanent move to sign Weston McKennie.
McKennie, 24, joined Leeds on loan in January from the Italian giants – after spending two and a half years with the Old Lady. He has played nine times for the Whites, starting seven times as Leeds look to steer clear from relegation.
The jury is certainly still out on McKennie. But there is no doubt that his arrival was seen as a coup, perhaps helped by the presence of Jesse Marsch – but more so, because of USA teammates Brenden Aaronson and Tyler Adams.
Whether or not Leeds do agree to sanction a move, remains to be seen. But reports from Italy state that while not a specific clause in his loan, there is a gentleman’s agreement Leeds will sign him if the club do remain in the top tier.
There is a permanent option and that clause will be struck if the Whites stave off the threat of finishing 18th or below. It will see Leeds pay a whopping £30.3million up front to Juventus – and then £4million more in bonuses.
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Leeds have gentleman’s agreement in place to sign Weston McKennie
Footballing fans will remember that Harry Kane also had a gentleman’s agreement with Tottenham to leave the club if a decent offer arrived. In the summer of 2021, Manchester City did make bids – but Daniel Levy prevented an exit.
That might be simply because Daniel Levy’s valuation was not met. But also, that a gentleman’s agreement is not set in stone and can see one of the two parties go back on the proposed deal. Not a definite, but it is very likely.
