Leeds United transfer news as Weston McKennie wanted by Borussia Dortmund and Roma
Leeds United midfielder Weston McKennie is an “ongoing target” for European giants Borussia Dortmund and Roma in the summer transfer window, according to Dean Jones.
The Whites agreed a loan deal for the 24-year-old in January for the rest of the season, with an option to make the transfer permanent for a fee of £30million should they wish to. [Fabrizio Romano, 30 January]
McKennie has made eight appearances for Javi Gracia’s side since signing for the West Yorkshire club and struck up a strong partnership with USMNT teammate Tyler Adams in the heart of midfield.
However, according to former Eurosport journalist Jones, Leeds may have a fight on their hands to keep the American, especially if they face relegation from the Premier League this season.
He wrote for GiveMeSport: “Interest from Aston Villa, Borussia Dortmund and Roma is ongoing and there are other clubs beginning to now monitor the situation.
“The Elland Road outfit will need to fight for the chance to keep him at the club and are remaining tight-lipped over their future intentions – but that goes hand-in-hand with their uncertain league situation. Relegation would undoubtedly mean he does not join and that is why the list of suitors will only grow between now and the end of the season.”
Competition
Although McKennie may not have yet hit the heights many Leeds fans would have hoped, he has still looked like a dependable option in the middle of the park for Gracia.
The £30million option to buy McKennie still looks like a tempting option for the Whites to trigger in the summer, especially considering the partnership between the Juventus loanee and Adams.
Having played together all the way through the age groups for the U.S. team, the pair have a somewhat telepathic understanding of each other’s games, and it shows on the pitch.
If Leeds do get relegated this season – which hopefully can become a distant thought with a couple of quick-fire wins after the international break – the reality is that a host of their top players would leave the club, including McKennie.
With Borussia Dortmund and Roma now joining Aston Villa in the race to sign the midfielder, Victor Orta will have to be at his very best to keep him away from their clutches.
In other Leeds United news, the club may now face a losing battle to keep their star player at Elland Road beyond the summer transfer window.
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