Joe Roberts

Tue 22 August 2023 14:10, UK

Leeds United want to sell Leo Hjelde permanently this summer while interested club Salernitana would prefer an initial loan, according to TuttoSalernitana.

The Italian outlet reported (21 August) that following long-term interest in the 19-year-old, Leeds are expected to make a response to the Serie A side, but wants £1.7million for the Norwegian defender.

Meanwhile, Salernitana are operating on a “minimum budget” this summer and could struggle to get the deal across the line.

Possible?

While Hjelde looks likely to depart Elland Road this summer, disagreements over the terms of his exit seem to have stalled the deal significantly.

Italian newspaper La Citta di Salerno claimed (18 August) that Leeds rejected a loan-to-buy deal for Hjelde, and that both the player and Salernitana were waiting for a response from the Whites.

Elsewhere, the Leeds Supporters Trust suggested (18 August) that there would be no more outgoings from Elland Road this season following the departure of Tyler Adams to Bournemouth, meaning perhaps the Nord could extend his stay in Yorkshire.

Hjelde has made two appearances for the Whites so far this season with an opening-day start against Cardiff City but was substituted at half-time for new signing Sam Byram.

He is yet to make an appearance for Leeds since but was unavailable to play against West Brom on Friday (18 August) due to getting a concussion during a training session.

Leeds may look to continue recruitment in the defence amid their growing injury list, but the Elland Road faithful will have to wait and see if the youngster is part of Daniel Farke’s plans for the rest of the season.

In other Leeds United news, the Whites have used Romeo Lavia’s price tag to revalue one of their wantaway stars.