Leeds United are looking to wrap up the appointment of a permanent sporting director by October.
That is according to an official statement released by the club, who have set out the timeline after the arrival of Nick Hammond as an interim football advisor earlier this morning.
Hammond will be tasked with overseeing what is expected to be a busy summer transfer window, with several incomings and outgoings expected.
The 55-year-old performed a similar role at Newcastle United in January 2022, a month of signings which heavily contributed to their survival in the Premier League, and success last season.
According to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Angus Kinnear and San Francisco 49ers Enterprises are carrying out a full review of the club’s football operations amid the failings of the last two years.
Leeds eye October DoF appointment
The arrival of Hammond provides Leeds with the chance to conduct a thorough investigation and therefore take the time they need to implement a long-term strategy.
A sporting director can be crucial to setting the culture of the club and therefore it is paramount they bring in the right man, rather than rushing into an appointment.
Norwich City’s Stuart Webber has been the man most heavily linked with the position, but after today’s announcement it wouldn’t be a surprise if Leeds look elsewhere.
The Canaries confirmed on Tuesday that Webber is currently serving his notice period at Carrow Road until March 2024, but that can be ended early if another club buys him out of his contract.
Effectively, Leeds would’ve had a free-run at bringing him in but the fact they are now eyeing an October appointment, hints they could be looking elsewhere.
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