Leeds United are preparing to make a few key signings ahead of the end of summer transfer window.
The biggest speaking point here, though, is probably that a player who has been touted for a move to Elland Road hasn’t traveled outside the country with his current club on their pre-season tour.
The move has caused rumor and intrigue amongst the Leeds supporters.
Leeds Targeting Full-Backs and Midfielders
Leeds are on the lookout for a new full-back to provide cover for Junior Firpo, Sam Byram and Jayden Bogle.
They are also after a midfielder who can score goals. But they could also be losing some key parts on the field.
Everton are distancing themselves from Wilfried Gnonto, but the Italian winger is still being tipped for a big money switch.
Meanwhile, Dutch winger Crysencio Summerville is apparently on the radar of West Ham who are said to be readying a £20 million offer for him.
Leeds’ wingers have been a surprise source of goals thus far but with Jaidon Anthony’s return to Bournemouth and Ian Poveda moving to Sunderland on a free transfer, Leeds may be in the market for another winger.
One potential option is Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, who has been left out of Crystal Palace’s pre-season tour.
Jesurun Rak-Sakyi: A Promising Talent
In 2022-23 Jesurun Rak-Sakyi (described as “magical” by Roy Hodgson) enjoyed an excellent season on loan at Charlton Athletic, scoring and assisting 22 goals.
However, his return to Crystal Palace saw limited first-team opportunities, with only eight appearances.
Linked with a number of top clubs, among them Leeds United, Rak-Sakyi is one to watch.
Leeds, who are understood to be among 18 Championship clubs keen on a loan for the winger and Southampton are readying an offer worth £12 million.
This resulted in his exclusion from Palace’s pre-season tour, indicating a potential transfer on the cards.
Decision Time for Rak-Sakyi
Crystal Palace have been left surprised by Rak-Sakyi’s absence from the club’s pre-season trip to America, according to Alan Nixon on his Patreon channel.
The first choice winger was expected to be named in the squad but now faces a major decision on his future.
Leeds will likely pursue Rak-Sakyi only if Summerville or Gnonto leaves. However, with interest from other clubs, Rak-Sakyi may make a move before Leeds finalizes any outgoing transfers.
Rak-Sakyi faces a choice of going for big money in the Premier League or furthering his development in the Championship.
That choice would have vast implications on his development one way or the other, and Leeds fans should be tuning in to see how this one plays out.
Leeds United’s Transfer Strategy
With the summer window coming to a close, it seems that Leeds United’s approach in terms of transfers is one where any incomings are balanced by potential exits.
It will be key for them to do so as they look to add strengths in depth ahead of the new season and signing players like Rak-Sakyi could help towards that effort.
The coming weeks will be critical as Leeds finalize their roster. Fans will be hoping for smart signings that bolster the team’s performance on the pitch, ensuring a competitive edge in the Championship.
More to follow as Leeds United attempt to put the finishing touches on their 2021-22 squad ahead of another long and challenging campaign.
