David Norris shares what he knows about Southampton as Leeds United chase Jesurun Rak-Sakyi
David Norris says he is aware that Southampton have shown interested in a deal for Leeds United-linked Jesurun Rak-Sakyi.
It is understood that Crystal Palace forward Rak-Sakyi is closing in on a move to Sheffield United after the Blades agreed to pay the Eagles a seven-figure loan fee for the winger [Alan Nixon, 7 August].
Daniel Farke’s side were firmly in the hunt for a season-long loan for the 21-year-old [Sky Sports, 1 August], and Norris said Rak-Sayki may have been holding out to see if there was a chance of making a loan move to Premier League new boys Southampton – who beat Leeds in last season’s play-off final.
Norris believes that Leeds do not quite hold the same level of attraction as they did in the Premier League hence why they are seemingly not stealing a march for Rak-Sakyi.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News he said: “Leeds are still a huge club, but I don’t think they have that same pull in the Championship as they have done in the Premier League.
“That’s especially the case for the foreign players I think, who might not be as aware of the history of the club, although the Rak-Sakyi deal is an interesting one – I know Southampton were interested and that he may have been holding out for a Premier League loan to start with if he had that option.
“I think Rak-Sakyi will play games, but I think he would have at Leeds as well. If they were in the Premier League, they would far more easily be able to sign these types of players.”
Leeds United lose out to Championship rival for deal
It’s an eye-opener for Leeds and for Daniel Farke that they now look unable to get a loan in place for Rak-Sakyi, whose seven-figure loan fee to some may feel like a bullet dodged.
The Palace star has only played eight league matches for the Eagles, having impressed on loan at Charlton Athletic in the 2022-23 season by scoring 15 in 43 matches.
The flanks are an area where the Whites do need to recruit, with no out-and-out wide options beyond Dan James and Willy Gnonto and other forward or midfield players likely to have to fill a void at some stage soon.
Gnonto has been rumoured to leave Elland Road before the 30 August deadline, but it now looks as if the club will have to put their foot down and keep the Italian international [Yorkshire Post, 7 August], regardless of his own desires.
Jonathan Rowe is a name which has continued to be linked and would be an excellent replacement for the departed Summerville.
In other Leeds news, the club can draw a line and benefit from Crysencio Summerville’s departure now being sealed.
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