Journalist names the Leeds United players left in ‘limbo’ after Daniel Farke transfer decisions
Darko Gyabi, Leo Hjelde, Kristoffer Klaesson and Lewis Bate have been named as the four Leeds United players who find themselves in “limbo” by Leeds Live journalist William Jackson.
The journalist shared on 9 September that, after a challenging summer, Daniel Farke’s pecking order seems set, leaving each of these players in a tricky situation having failed to secure a regular spot in the side nor being allowed to find temporary moves.
Gyabi in particular was tipped for big things, with this set to be his first full season with the senior side after arriving from Manchester City last summer, but has failed to impress so far.
“Daniel Farke’s pecking order looks set after a challenging summer and it’s fair to say four players find themselves in a tricky spot,” Jackson wrote.
He added that the quartet might have to flitter between the first team and U21s this term, writing: “However, it’s fair to say a number of players remain in limbo after failing to secure regular spots within Farke’s plans over the last couple of months.
“With chances and senior minutes set to be few and far between, they might find themselves dropping down to Michael Skubala’s U21s set up on a regular basis between now and January, when they’ll next have the opportunity to pursue other options.”
Four differing situations
In Gyabi’s case, the club were prepared to sanction a loan move for him towards the end of the summer [Graham Smyth, 31 August], although a proposed move to Fleetwood [Phil Hay, 1 September] ultimately fell through. A £4million bid from French side Valenciennes was also rejected.
Hjelde could still find himself in with a shot at first-team football, having started the season against Cardiff before the arrival of Sam Byram eased him out. Byram’s injury means Hjelde could return to the side in the future, but will struggle for game time once Byram and Junior Firpo return.
Klaesson featured during pre-season, but the arrival of Karl Darlow and the surprise stay of Illan Meslier mean he is now a firm third choice, with first-team minutes looking increasingly unlikely, even in the cup competitions.
Lastly, Bate has struggled for game time at Elland Road since arriving from Chelsea. He impressed on loan with League One side Oxford United last season but has fallen down the pecking order in Farke’s midfield plans, meaning he will be playing youth football again this season.
In other Leeds United news, a Saudi Arabian club have made a move to sign a Leeds ace.