It always seemed a difficult deal to do in the final 24 hours of the window, but Eduard Spertsyan won’t be joining Leeds United as things stand following the player’s comments.
Beren Cross reported late last week on The Athletic that Krasnodar captain Eduard Spertsyan remained an option for Leeds in the final days of the window. He had been linked with Leeds earlier in the summer.
Spertsyan laid on an assist from a corner for Jhon Cordoba on Sunday, during Krasnodar’s draw with CSKA Moscow. A crucial point that saw the Russian Premier League’s two front-runners go head to head.
Speaking after the game, Spertsyan refuted any idea he could leave Krasnodar before the deadline. He also discussed Southampton’s offer, though it is unclear if Spertsyan was aware of Leeds’ interest.
Krasnodar manager discusses Eduard Spertsyan’s decision to stay
Spertsyan’s decision to stay in the face of Leeds’ interest is just one example of a few options opting against a move to Elland Road. Christantus Uche, Facundo Buonanotte and Bilal El Khannouss, as well.
Following Spertsyan’s comments, Krasnodar manager Murad Musayev was quoted by Russian outlet Gazeta as saying he was delighted that Spertsyan would at least remain with Krasnodar until January.
“As for transfers, we are most likely closed for entry and exit. We are glad that Spertsyan is staying. The offer was serious, but the negotiations did not go far,” Musayev said, when discussing Spertsyan.
Which options remain for Leeds in final hours of deadline day?
Leeds have missed out on many options but others could become available in the midst of the drama that is deadline day. Manor Solomon is available with the Tottenham man eyeing a Premier League move.
But Leicester could make a late play for Solomon, as a replacement for El Khannouss. Dilane Bakwa is also a target but as the window grows older, agreeing such an expensive fee becomes less and less likely.
Sunderland are showing Leeds how it is done, immediately agreeing a fee for Brian Brobbey after losing Marc Guiu. Leeds need to pull their finger out if they want to appease a desperate Daniel Farke.
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