By Sam Stone

26th May, 2023 | 6:40pm

Juventus to welcome Weston McKennie amid failed £35m Leeds United agreement

Juventus are set to welcome Weston McKennie back with his £35million move to Leeds United unlikely to happen, according to Calcio Mercato.

Calcio Mercato report on Friday 26 May, the 24-year-old is “very unlikely” to complete a permanent switch to the West Yorkshire club.

It’s believed Juventus are getting ready to welcome McKennie back into the fray in Turin. The Serie side view the American’s return as a major “hitch” due to the financial problems currently engulfing the Italian giants.

McKennie was set to sign for Leeds for £30million, with the deal potentially rising to £35million.

However, due to the Whites’ precarious league position, they will not follow through with the option in his current agreement. It’s understood Juventus were planning on using the fee to reinvest in their squad.

No surprise

This should come as no surprise for Leeds United. The American has been largely disappointing during his spell at Elland Road. The fanbase were certainly expecting a lot more. Even if Leeds remained a Premier League club, there would be question marks hanging over the midfielder.

He’s failed to adapt to the pace and power of the top flight. Tyler Adams’ injury has had an impact on his performance. His compatriot would, without a doubt, have helped McKennie.

£35million for a player who has failed to live up to the hype would be a poor piece of business. That sort of money can instead be invested all over the squad. Particularly if Leeds do fall into the second tier. This summer will be absolutely massive in terms of shaping a new squad.

With talk of the 49ers’ takeover now gathering pace, significant change could now be afoot at Elland Road. There will be a lot more clarity after the Whites’ Premier League campaign concludes on Sunday evening.

In other Leeds news, another ex-Premier League manager rejected the club before Big Sam was appointed.