Leeds United transfer news: Charlie Cresswell contract talks on hold amid Premier League exit links
Charlie Cresswell is refusing to sign a new Leeds United contract as he is waiting on interest from two Premier League clubs, according to Last Word on Sports.
The 20-year-old centre-back looks primed for a much-expanded role in the Whites first team following relegation after a season on loan at Millwall.
But despite the academy product saying in an interview on Tuesday (25 July), as per the Yorkshire Evening Post, “that is my dream, ever since I was a little boy, I wanted to play for Leeds United,” it is claimed currently won’t sign an extension to his contract, expiring in 2025, amid top flight exit links.
According to Last Word on Sports the same day: “Last Word on Football understands from reliable sources that Charlie Cresswell is currently holding out on signing a new deal with Leeds United, as there are ‘two Premier League clubs interested in him'”.
Neither of the prospective suitors have been identified as yet.
Warning
Cresswell didn’t actually commit himself to the club long-term in his public comments, stating only that it is his “goal” to feature for the Whites and that “hopefully this season I’ve got a chance to do so”, while making no comment on a new deal.
He may, therefore, be keeping his options open in case the opportunity which seems to be there for him this season doesn’t materialise.
It has likely not gone unnoticed by the England under-21 international that teammate Cody Drameh has excelled in the Championship with Cardiff before only to be overlooked for a role in the first team.
The right-back is in the same boat again this year after another strong spell at Luton Town, and both may be minded to see whether Daniel Farke is prepared to play the returning loanees unlike Jesse Marsch a year earlier.
With Diego Llorente, Rasmus Kristensen, Robin Koch, and now Max Wober, all missing from last season’s central options the door looks wide open for Cresswell to step up, and if the manager slots him in then the likelihood is that he stays longer-term.
But if the German wants to make signings instead then a Premier League offer, should it arrive, would look all the more attractive.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites are expected to complete a new permanent signing “this week”.