Leeds United supporters’ trust post statement on Georginio Rutter after holding talks with the club

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The Leeds United supporters’ trust have posted a statement on social media after reports emerged that Brighton had activated a £40m release clause in Georginio Rutter’s contract.

A fan favourite, Rutter played the last 30 minutes of the dismal 3-0 loss to Middlesbrough in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night. A few hours later, and it was reported that Brighton had tabled a £40m fee.

That has forced Leeds to accept the Frenchman’s exit with Brighton keen to bring the former Hoffenheim and Rennes star back to the Premier League. A decision now comes down to what Rutter wants to do.

Leeds are supposedly ‘begging’ to keep Rutter at Elland Road, but Rutter has made a decision and that is to join Brighton this summer. The backlash from fans is one of anger towards the club’s new owners.

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Leeds supporters’ trust post Rutter statement amid £40m bid

With Archie Gray and Crysencio Summerville sold and not yet replaced, Leeds have plenty of work to do in the final fortnight of the window. Numerous areas of the squad need strengthening, and depth added.

Fans are fuming that Gray was allowed to go, and that Summerville has not been replaced. Now, out of the clue after a poor start to the season, Rutter is off as well even if Leeds offered him a new contract.

The supporters’ trust say that they have spoken to Leeds about Rutter and clear a few things up. They say that as things stand, Rutter has not yet made a decision and nothing is finalised in terms of a Leeds exit.

Key points from LUFC trust’s statement on Rutter and Brighton

It is interesting that as things stand, Rutter is yet to make a decision despite reports suggesting he has chosen to go. But it is also indicative of players these days, that a release clause was included in his deal.

It is unconfirmed whether this is a release clause that became active after relegation, or failure to get promoted. Paraag Marathe’s promises at the start of the window are starting to seem like soundbites.

If Leeds sell Rutter, replacements – and even good does, at that – won’t appease fans. Supporters will be livid that Rutter has been allowed to go and even with a release clause, as fans worry for Leeds’ future.