The transfer window is hotting up as Leeds United start to make movements in bringing new players in after a summer fire sale, and they might have just received a boost over one “amazing” target.
The 49ers began the window by getting players out the door in order to raise funds. Six have been sold, five more players have gone on loan and plenty have left Elland Road at the end of their Leeds contract.
Leeds certainly lack the depth of 2023-24, with eight players that finished the season in Daniel Farke’s squad now gone including the likes of Liam Cooper, Jaidon Anthony, Connor Roberts and Archie Gray.
But Jayden Bogle, Alex Cairns and Joe Rothwell have come in, while Brenden Aaronson and Max Wober have returned. There are still areas of the squad that need strengthening, like depth at full-back.
Leeds still need another player at full-back after summer fire sale
At right-back, Leeds have lost Gray, Luke Ayling, Rasmus Kristensen, Cody Drameh, Roberts and Jamie Shackleton. All left this summer in one way or another, forcing Leeds to make a new summer signing.
In comes Bogle for £5m from Sheffield United. But Leeds are still only left with three options at full-back. Bogle on the right, Junior Firpo on the left and injury-prone Sam Byram covering both sides for Leeds.
The Whites need another body at full-back and one player they are being linked with is Alfie Gilchrist. The youngster broke into Chelsea’s first team under Mauricio Pochettino last term, and is set to go on loan.
Chelsea make Alfie Gilchrist decision that could benefit Leeds
Described as “amazing” by Pochettino, Gilchrist has been linked with Leeds for much of the summer. But Leeds are not alone in their interest with Preston and Blackburn keen on the Chelsea academy product.
Gilchrist has been left behind from Chelsea’s tour of the US in pre-season as he closes in on a loan and a report from Give Me Sport hands Leeds a boost. Cesc Fabregas’ Como want to take him on loan in Italy.
But Chelsea would prefer to send him to The Championship and avoid using one of their foreign loan spots. Gilchrist’s versatility all over the back line would make him a really smart addition to Farke’s squad.
GMS also say Preston and Sheffield United have made season-long loan offers while Leeds and Blackburn enquired earlier. If Leeds are to sign Gilchrist from Enzo Maresca’s new side, then they must act quickly.
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