Pranav Shahaney

Mon 8 January 2024 15:40, UK

Rangers and Celtic target Joe Gelhardt may leave Leeds United on a sponsored loan in January due to his big wages, according to Alan Nixon.

The Sun journalist reported on 8 January that the Liverpool-born striker may be on his way out of Elland Road in January on loan.

However, due to his wages, the Whites may have to sponsor his wages in order to ensure he goes out and gets some game time.

The Daily Mail reported on 8 January that the 21-year-old has been attracting interest from Celtic and Rangers in January.

Via Twitter, Nixon wrote, “He’s been nowhere near for weeks and can go on loan. On big money. That will have to be a sponsored loan for someone.”

Makes sense?

Despite making 49 appearances for the senior team, the 21-year-old is still way down the pecking order and Daniel Farke does not appear to be a big fan.

While Leeds might entertain selling him, a loan move with the possibility of covering a fraction of his wages makes financial sense.

This arrangement allows Gelhardt to gain valuable experience and potentially increase his market value for a future transfer.

Rangers and Celtic could afford a share of Gelhardt’s wages, making the move feasible.

This loan arrangement benefits all parties involved as the striker gets playing time crucial for his development, Leeds retain an asset that could appreciate in value and the interested clubs bolster their squad with a promising young talent without bearing the full financial burden.

There might also be interest from the Championship to secure his services and it remains to be seen whether or not anyone comes in for the 21-year-old.

In other Leeds United news, an international player linked with a move to Elland Road is unhappy at his current club and could be on his way out in the January transfer window.