Leeds United are reportedly keen on signing Chelsea starlet Alfie Gilchrist this summer, as per the transfer journalist Ben Jacobs.
Despite enjoying a promising campaign last term, the Whites ended the season on a disappointing note after losing to Southampton in the Championship playoff final.
As a result, they have reportedly endured a big financial blow. It has been reported that Leeds will have to sell a few of their star man to balance the books, however, they will be hoping to reinforce the squad ahead of next season to help Daniel Farke mount a top-two charge next season.
But, Farke’s side reportedly can’t spend big so they are exploring low-cost options. Now, speaking on London Is Blue Podcast, Jacobs has reported that Chelsea are open to letting Gilchrist leave the club but they’ll only want him to go away in a loan deal to play regularly and develop his career.
Leeds ‘really keen’ on signing Gilchrist
The journalist also says that Leeds are ‘really keen’ on signing the defender and have already made initial contact with the Blues to learn about the details of acquiring his service.
However, Jacobs states that Preston North End and Blackburn Rovers are also interested in securing his signature, therefore, it won’t be a straightforward deal for the Peacocks.
Gilchrist can play in the centre-back position but he was used in the right-back position by Mauricio Pochettino last season. He wasn’t a regular starter for the Blues but was given game-time amid the injury absence of Reece James and Malo Gusto in the second half of last campaign.
Leeds are short in numbers in their right-back position so adding depth in this department would help Farke to achieve success next season and Gilchrist could be a shrewd signing if the Whites acquire his service.
However, it is going to be interesting to see whether Farke’s side can manage to lure him to Elland Road in this transfer window if he eventually moves away from Stamford Bridge.
