Leeds United wanted to sign Ruben Loftus-Cheek from Chelsea under Jesse Marsch, could move again in summer
Jesse Marsch wanted to sign Ruben Loftus-Cheek for Leeds while he was manager, but the club could look to sign him in the summer.
The American coach bolstered the club’s midfield while he was here with three signings, bringing in all of Marc Roca, Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie but according to journalist Simon Phillips that wasn’t all he wanted to do.
Writing on his substack (20 February), Phillips admitted that the former England international could leave Chelsea in the summer and that Leeds shouldn’t be discounted as a potential destination, although it would likely depend on the new manager.
“Ruben Loftus-Cheek is another who could depart this summer,” he wrote.
“The 27-year-old hasn’t recaptured his 2018/29 form in which he scored 10 goals and played 40 games in all competitions. Keep an eye on Newcastle, who rate a number of Chelsea players, including Conor Gallagher and Christian Pulisic.
“Leicester always seem to be linked with Loftus-Cheek, too, but they have never actually made a significant move.
“Don’t discount Leeds either. A lot will depend on their new manager, but Loftus-Cheek was one Jesse Marsch was quite intent on for the summer prior to being sacked.”
Option
The current midfield options at the club are strong, but there is no doubting that Loftus-Cheek would add a new level of quality in the attacking third from midfield.
Physically he has been a fantastic player for a long time, but his biggest issues have been his fitness but he seems to be better when given a regular run of game time.
Right now there is no guarantee that the Whites will be in the Premier League next season, so transfer targets for the summer window seem like a long way away.
But it’s interesting to note that the club have been keeping an eye on players like Loftus-Cheek to bolster the squad, because it shows the intent was always to improve the midfield.
If we don’t get relegated then the summer will be huge to improve the squad and ensure that we cement our Premier League status for years to come, and a signing like that could help.
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