Joe Gelhardt exit update at Leeds United as strict FIFA rules emerge

Leeds United are unlikely to allow Joe Gelhardt out on loan from Elland Road after strict FIFA rules emerged, according to Football Scotland.

The website reported [10 January] that, due to FIFA's rule of only allowing six players to be loaned out in a campaign to international clubs, the Whites are unlikely to allow the 21-year-old forward to join Rangers or Celtic.

It is understood that the Old Firm rivals were interested in bringing Gelhardt to Scotland but, with Max Wober, Robin Koch, Brenden Aaronson, Rasmus Kristensen and Marc Roca all currently on loan, Leeds only have one loan spot left.

Big blow for Gelhardt

Gelhardt has been delivered some very bad news amid a poor season under Daniel Farke, starting just two Championship games this season and scoring just once, a goal which came in the EFL Cup against Shrewsbury Town.

There is no doubt that the young striker will be frustrated with his current situation at Leeds, with Georginio Rutter and Joel Piroe allowing no space for other strikers on the pitch.

Patrick Bamford looks set to be the back-up to the attacking duo, especially after his heroics in the FA Cup against Peterborough United on Sunday.

And recently, the 21-year-old was humiliated after 20-year-old Mateo Fernandez was brought on as Farke's final substitution in a 1-0 loss to West Brom, instead of the more established Gelhardt.

Gelhardt is an exciting prospect. And after a hit-and-miss six-month loan spell with Sunderland last season, it was hoped the forward would hit the ground running upon his return, but that is yet to be seen.

Some clubs may look to permanently transfer the young striker, with a loan deal seeming unlikely, but it remains to be seen as to whether Leeds would be open to losing Gelhardt indefinitely.

In other Leeds United news, Phil Hay has shared an update on a Premier League target that he’s been told the Whites are interested in.