Leo Hjelde exit from Leeds United halted over injury blow at Elland Road
Salernitana are interested in Leeds United defender Leo Hjelde, although a move is not possible at this moment in time, according to Cronache.
The Italian news outlet reported online (11 August) that the Serie A side are interested in signing the 19-year-old to act as a backup option for Domagoj Bradaric.
Despite their desire to make a move for Hjelde, an injury to Junior Firpo means the Swede is needed at Elland Road to cover in the Brazillian’s absence.
Difficult deal
Considering the extent of Firpo’s injury, as well as the many other players that Daniel Farke has out at the moment, it would be an incredibly baffling decision if the club were to let Hjelde go during the current transfer window.
As per the official club website (8 August), an update provided form Thorp Arch suggests that Firpo will be out for another month while captain Liam Cooper is expected to be out for eight weeks. This would see both of these players return to action at Elland Road come after the window shuts.
Unless defensive recruits are brought in, it is hard to see Hjelde going anywhere this summer. The defender started on as part of Farke’s back-four against Cardiff City in the club’s opening match of the Championship campaign, which finished 2-2, and will likely remain a feature of the team until Firpo’s return.
Seems like a move to Italy isn’t on the cards right now.
In other Leeds United news, a decision is expected soon on the future of another player at the club.