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Joe Gelhardt could leave Leeds United on one condition, everything could change - Phil Hay
Joe Gelhardt could be set for another loan spell away from Leeds United if the Whites secure their Premier League safety, according to The Athletic’s Phil Hay.
The 20-year-old has been enjoying a mixed time at Sunderland but got on the scoresheet in the Black Cats’ 1-1 draw against Huddersfield (The Athletic, 20 April).
Hay has revealed (20 April) a decision has yet to be made on the forward’s next move, with another loan away from Elland Road potentially in the offing.
“The next move in Gelhardt’s progression is yet to be decided,” wrote Hay.
“Survival for Leeds might bring another loan away from Elland Road. A new contract, running to the summer of 2027 and only signed last August, underlines his part in Leeds’ long-term thinking.
“Relegation, like most aspects of life at Elland Road, might change everything.”
Huge
Gelhardt’s next move is absolutely massive. The Sunderland stint has been a good learning curve for the youngster. Five-goal involvements for the Championship side is a decent return and with the forward being contracted to Leeds until the summer of 2027, it’s clear he will be involved in some capacity at Elland Road in the future.
However, much will depend on the club’s league status. If Leeds are relegated to the Championship, utilising younger players like Gelhardt will be a necessity. Cost-cutting measures will have to be implemented if the Whites do drop back into the second tier and the 20-year-old would be an effective option.
For now, the onus is on Javi Gracia to turn Leeds’ fortunes around. Back-to-back hammerings against Liverpool and Crystal Palace has seen the mood around Elland Road take a turn.
It felt as if the Whites were progressing under the Spaniard, particularly after the 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest. Up next is a trip to Fulham on Saturday with three points now a requirement.
In other Leeds United news, a key Whites ace is being tracked by a mega-rich club ahead of a possible summer deal.