Leeds United have shown interest in Cheikhou Kouyate [credit: Nottingham Forest FC on YouTube]

Leeds United dodge Cheikhou Kouyate bullet amid latest medical development

Senior Correspondent AUTHORITY Senior sports journalist with experience at GRV Media and VAVEL; University of Derby graduate. FOCUS Exclusive content, statistical analysis, and deep-dive reporting across the Breaking Media network. THE INSIGHT Max utilises a network of club and industry contacts to deliver verified, exclusive reporting and data-driven insight. He provides the intelligence behind the stories to ensure fans get the full picture.

Published on:

17 Oct 2024, 2:40 pm

Leeds United may have dodged a bullet by missing out on signing Cheikhou Kouyate on a free transfer after he failed his medical at Elland Road.

The Whites have been keen to bring in a free-agent midfielder to cover for the injured starters Ilia Gruev and Ethan Ampadu.

The duo are likely to be absent for Daniel Farke's side for the long term which saw the German turn towards the ex-Nottingham Forest man.

MOT Leeds News now understands that club staff at Thorp Arch have refused to give the go-ahead on the deal after the midfielder failed a medical.

This could prove to be a blessing in disguise for Leeds who can now utilise other avenues to cover for the injured pair.

Leeds United dodge Cheikhou Kouyate bullet

The Whites have been calling out for a new midfield option after the double injury concern they suffered in back-to-back games.

This has seen plenty of pressure piled on the likes of Ao Tanaka and Joe Rothwell who have been forced into the spotlight to take the mantle.

With the Japanese international away during the breaks, there is always the chance of further injuries which could leave Farke's side very thin.

The prospect of bringing in Kouyate could have proved to be useful on a short-term basis but also screams of a panic buy who could set the club back on the pitch and financially.

With that being said, seeing him fail his medical at Thorp Arch could prove to be a bullet missed by the club.

Cheikhou Kouyate is wanted at Leeds United. (Credit: Imago)

Instead, Farke would be best placed utilising the positive options available to them in the academy with this the perfect chance for Charlie Crew to shine on the big stage.

Archie Gray did exactly that last season and there is no reason why the Welshman can't do the same thing this campaign.

In other Leeds United news, an injury update has been shared by Farke ahead of the clash against Sheffield United.

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Leeds United

Daniel Farke

Cheikhou Kouyate