Georginio Rutter has made his decision after Leeds offer him new and improved contract

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Leeds United fans woke up to some dismal news on Thursday morning to find that Georginio Rutter would be leaving Elland Road and joining Premier League side Brighton.

Club-record signing Rutter is a fan favourite at Elland Road after having a hand in 24 goals for the club. Whether it be his infectious personality, or his off-field pitch activities, Rutter is loved by those at Leeds.

But only a few hours after Wednesday night’s dismal Carabao Cup defeat to Middlesbrough, reports came out that said Brighton had activated a £40m clause in Rutter’s deal after earlier bids of £29m and £35m.

Then, on Thursday morning it was that Rutter has now made a decision on his future and that is, he will leave the club. Even though, Leeds are begging the attacker to remain in Yorkshire and reject Brighton.

• READ MORE: What Luke Ayling did to Georginio Rutter during warm-up last night

Leeds have pulled out all the stops to keep fan favourite Rutter

With Archie Gray and Crysencio Summerville gone, losing another player that the fans adore is not going to go down well. Especially, as the club are yet to bring in any replacements for the aforementioned duo.

So it comes as no surprise that despite having to accept Brighton’s £40m bid, Leeds are doing all they can to keep Rutter at Elland Road. TalkSPORT’s Alex Crook say Leeds have even offered him a new contract.

Crook says Rutter is set to snub that offer: “Georginio Rutter expected to snub the offer of an improved contract at #LUFC to join #BHAFC after they triggered his £40m release clause just before it expired.”

No indication of Leeds exit when Rutter spoke earlier this month

Another of Rutter’s off-field ventures has seen the France U21 striker create a YouTube channel and he said on it earlier this month he was fully focused on securing a place in the Premier League with Leeds.

“Unfortunately, it’s not what we wanted, but it’s not an end. After a rest, it’s time to get back to work, more determined than ever so next year will be a better season for me. I’ll be ready and give it my all.”

But it looks as if by the time Leeds take on West Brom on Saturday, Rutter will be at Brighton and The Whites will have to find a replacement for the French ace with just a fortnight left in the window.