Leeds United could still sign Cheikhou Kouyate after new transfer update
Graham Smyth has shared that Leeds United could still sign Cheikhou Kouyate as a temporary fix to their injury crisis.
Leeds have endured a crisis in midfield with Ilia Gruev and Ethan Ampadu now sidelined for months after picking up injuries at Elland Road.
The Senegal international has been linked with a move to LS11 and despite recent reports of uncertainty [Adam Pope], Smyth insists a move is still being considered.
“It’s funny you know, it’s turned into a bit of the Wild West all this discussion of Leeds and a free agent,” Smyth said on the Inside Elland Road Podcast (17 October).
“This is a player who might barely play any football at all but as you were hinting at, how many medicals has he reportedly, failed or passed and how many deals have been done and fallen apart?
“The situation is still that Kouyate remains one of the very small number that they have looked at and are looking at and considering.”
Cheikhou Kouyate transfer twist at Leeds United
Daniel Farke may feel like he needs extra heads to be added to his squad due to injuries suffered but, in reality, the West Yorkshire outfit already has options within their ranks that would more than suffice.
Charlie Crew is the most likely candidate as he’s often been included on the bench in senior matchday squads despite his young age.
The midfielder hasn’t yet been given a chance to make his debut but his talent is evident.
With Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell likely the starting pair for the foreseeable future, even if a free agent did arrive, it would be a backup option behind them.
This means that no matter who’s brought in, they’d likely be sat taking a wage from the club as the season goes on and end up being a pointless signing.
Darko Gybai also has a future recall clause within his Plymouth loan deal [Plymouth Live, 9 July] so if Farke manages to stick it out until January, the midfielder could easily suffice as another option if needed.
All of these scenarios will be considered at Elland Road, with a crucial period coming up to make that final decision on a possible transfer, with Kouyate seemingly still in the mix.
In other Leeds news, Mateo Joseph has shared a confession about his happiness at Elland Road.
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