Latest: Leeds United have made a ‘formative approach’ to sign Chelsea starlet Alfie Gilchrist this summer, as per the transfer journalist Ben Jacobs.
The 20-year-old ranked through the Blues’ youth system before making his senior debut for the West London club last year. The youngster was used as a squad player by Mauricio Pochettino last season and played a few games in the right-back position amid the injury absence of their first-choice right-backs.
Now, it has been reported that Gilchrist is willing to leave the club on loan to play regularly and develop his career as he is unlikely to get regular playing time at Stamford Bridge next season.
Speaking on the JustJoe Football Show, Jacobs has reported that Leeds are interested in the Chelsea star and have already made a ‘formative approach’ to acquire his service.
The journalist further claims that Gilchrist would be open to moving to Elland Road if they formalise their interest so the Peacocks can manage to sign him this summer.
Latest: Leeds make move to sign Gilchrist
However, Jacobs says that Preston North End and Blackburn Rovers have also registered their interest in signing him, therefore, the Yorkshire club will have to overcome stiff competition from their rivals to lure him to Elland Road.
Jacobs said:
“Leeds, Preston and Blackburn are the three clubs who have made a formative approach so far. To all intents and purposes, Gilchrist would be open to a Leeds move. He’s obviously got great respect, though I know Chelsea and Leeds have their own rivalry. Nonetheless, he would go there, and he would be very willing to fight and try to get promoted.”
The 20-year-old played 11 games in the Premier League last season but started only two, scoring a solitary goal. Gilchrist is a talented player and needs regular game-time to gain confidence and flourish in his career.
Playing in the Championship could help him do that and Leeds could be a very good destination for him if the Peacocks opt to sign him.
However, it remains to be seen whether Daniel Farke’s side eventually decide to secure the Englishman’s signature if he leaves Chelsea over the coming weeks.
