Phil Hay has told The Athletic that Leeds United could sign Weston McKennie from Juventus on loan to begin with, and an obligation to buy the midfielder – in order to make the move affordable for Leeds, but still satisfying Juve’s requests.
McKennie, 24, is being strongly linked with a move to Elland Road. A move that would see him team up with two of his USA teammates in Brenden Aaronson and Tyler Adams. Marsch and Adams have spoken to McKennie, about a move.
Late on Wednesday night, Sky Italy journalist Gianluca Di Marzio says Leeds have actually made a move. Indeed, a bid of £24.6million. But Juventus rate him at £30.8million – a difference of just over £6million. But Hay has a solution.
He says that Leeds are sceptical over being able to meet Juve’s demands. That is, even though Juventus are keen to sell amid their points deduction. The 15-point reduction means Champions League football is unlikely. Cash is not flowing.
So, they will need to bring in some money, perhaps through player sales and certainly, by trimming the wage budget. McKennie is not one of the top earners, on a £49k-a-week at Juve. But, he will bring in a decent chunk of cash for Juve.
But with Leeds worried they will not be able to meet Juve’s demands this month, Hay says a loan could help. Leeds have spent £40million in January. Signing him on loan, with an obligation, would deter paying until the summer.
Hay: Leeds could sign McKennie from Juventus on loan with an obligation
McKennie would be a wonderful signing but it does make sense that Leeds are being stubborn in talks. The Whites have spent more than £10million on Max Wober before add-ons – while, Georginio Rutter cost an initial £24.8million.
So, deferring that payment to sign McKennie until the summer but still getting him now, helps both clubs. It might be that Leeds have to pay slightly more to have that luxury, or a loan fee on top of the actual price tag.
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