Salernitana in negotiations to sign Leeds United starlet Leo Hjelde – Sky Sports
Serie A outfit Salernitana are in talks with Leeds United over a move for promising youngster Leo Hjelde, according to Sky Sports Italy.
The 19-year-old centre-back spent the second half of last season on loan with Championship side Rotherham United, making 13 appearances and ending the season in 19th.
The Italian side, owned by billionaire Danilo Iervolino, looks to improve their defensive options following their 15th-place finish in Serie A.
High potential youngster could flourish in Italy
Not many outside the Leeds United fanbase would have heard of the Nottingham-born Norwegian youth international, but he made a good impression of himself in the Championship last season.
According to FBRef, his strongest defensive abilities come from his interceptions (1.83 per 90) and his clearances (3.25 per 90), proving that he is more than capable of performing well in the second division.
However, Salernitana reportedly see him as a good option to help strengthen their leaky defence. Paulo Sousa’s side conceded 62 goals in their recent campaign, the joint third worst in the Italian top-flight meaning Hjelde could expect a real challenge should he put pen to paper.
However, Hjelde would be a good player for Leeds themselves after their relegation to the Championship. He already has experience in the second division and possesses natural strength and height that would make him effective for Leeds, even if he is not an immediate starter.
He can also boast some international experience, making a total of 25 appearances throughout Norway’s youth setup.
Hjelde has two years remaining on the four-year deal he signed in 2021, meaning Leeds may feel no obligation to cash in. However, his valuation of nearly £1.3million [Transfermarkt] means he would certainly be a feasible transfer for the Italian club.
The Norwegian may want to new chapter abroad, and playing top-flight Italian football for a team on the up could prove to be a smart move.
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