The Athletic report that Tottenham Hotspur were keeping an eye on new Leeds United midfielder Weston McKennie in January – but the return of Rodrigo Bentancur from injury, and the form of Pape Matar Sarr, saw them move on.
McKennie, 24, is expected to make his debut for Leeds on Sunday when the Whites play against Nottingham Forest. It comes after joining the club in a loan-to-buy deal believed to be worth a figure in the region of £35m, from Juve.
Of course, Fabio Paratici knows McKennie well. He signed him at Juventus in the summer of 2020 from Schalke. A deal recognisable to Spurs fans, much likes deals for Cristian Romero and Deki Kulusevski. He joined a year later.
But Spurs have options in midfield. Sarr came into the team with Bentancur injured, impressing against the likes of Crystal Palace and Arsenal. Then, Bentancur returned from injury. So, a McKennie deal was not pursued at Spurs.
Instead, he joins Leeds in a deal that is seen as a coup for the Yorkshire side. Leeds play host to Tottenham on the final day of the season, in what may be McKennie’s last game for us – if he does not join the club permanently.
Tottenham were keeping an eye on new Leeds midfielder McKennie
McKennie has made the right move. Had he gone to Spurs, it is likely he would have been providing cover for the likes of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Rodrigo Bentancur. He might not have been first reserve under Antonio Conte.
Spurs have Oliver Skipp, Sarr and Yves Bissouma as cover. The North London side are well-equipped in the middle of the park. Instead, McKennie has move to Leeds where it is expected he will start most games with Tyler Adams.
For Marc Roca, he will be lamenting his up-and-down form that has convinced Leeds to make a move in January. While he might not have been the best of signings for Spurs – he is the ideal January addition at Elland Road.
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