Joe Gelhardt edges closer to Leeds United exit after Celtic transfer twist
A loan exit from Leeds United could be on the cards as the January transfer window approaches, according to the Yorkshire Evening Post.
Interest in a loan move has been ongoing for quite some time with talks taking place with Celtic last January, but the Whites already had too many foreign loans at the time to be able to make a deal.
Daniel Farke was not keen to let the player go this summer so the forward remained at Elland Road but he has only had two league appearances this year, both of which were from the bench.
The Yorkshire Evening Post has reported that a loan move in the upcoming January transfer window is preferable for the player who is eager to get regular minutes under his belt again with a number of Championship clubs interested in gaining his services.
Loan move for Gelhardt or remaining at Leeds United?
It is understandable why Farke was keen to keep the forward on his books as he is a striker with experience in the Premier League who could easily perform if he came into the Leeds side.
However, he is currently battling with Mateo Joseph, Joel Piroe and Patrick Bamford for game time which leaves him quite far down the pecking order.
Having just recovered from an injury, game time for the 22-year-old would be crucial to allow him to get his match fitness back up and fully recover rather than warming the bench for his current side.
It’s understandable that the player is eager to go as well as it would give him a new opportunity to showcase himself both to his current boss and the football world.
A loan move could be beneficial for both the club and the player because it seems quite clear he isn’t going to be getting minutes for the league leaders this season.
Furthermore, it would not cause the manager to make a decision on the future of a player, who has a contract running until 2027, yet.
With plenty of Championship interest appearing again, this can only be a good move.
In other Leeds United news, an injury update for Willy Gnonto after he was dropped against Swansea has been provided.
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