Good Morning. It's Friday 9th August, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road...
Progress being made in pursuit of Norwich starLeeds are making slow progress (but progress nonetheless) in their pursuit of Norwich City winger Jonathan Rowe, but do not expect a deal to be struck any time soon. The Canaries almost fell off their perch, when Leeds tried to low-ball them with a £7m offer on Tuesday. It is believed that both sides are willing to negotiate, which could lead to a deal being finalised around the £10m mark, with add-ons.
The club's emphasis on nurturing up-and-coming-stars aligns well with Rowe's potential. The Championship could offer Rowe the perfect stage to showcase his talent and move on to the next stage in his development. Daniel Farke sees the 21yo as the perfect replacement for Crysencio Summerville, who departed for West Ham earlier in the week. His potential to play across the front line could offer tactical flexibility, something sadly lacking last season.
Leeds lose out on Rak-SakyiLeeds have lost out on Crystal Palace winger Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, opting instead of a season-long loan to Sheffield Utd. The talented winger had been linked with a host of Championship clubs, but once again, the Bramall Lane hierarchy pulled out all the stops, to get their man. The Blades have bought in Callum O'Hare, Harrison Burrows, Alfie Gilchrist (loan), Jamie Shackleton, Harry Souttar (loan) and Kieffer Moore - and still have change from £5m (not including loan fees).
Several Leeds bloggers have scoffed at the fact that Palace have a recall clause, plus, the loan agreement will set the Blades back £1m. Let's not forget that Leeds paid Citeh £9m in loan fees (over three seasons) for Jack Harrison - even though Everton receive his services for gratis!
