Leeds future plans suffer setback as Borussia Dortmund lead from Aston Villa in star chase
Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams in conversation
Interest in Leeds United loanee Weston McKennie is reportedly ‘ongoing’ from Borussia Dortmund, Roma and Premier League rivals Aston Villa.
McKennie is one of the biggest names to have represented the Whites of late. Indeed, the signing of a player who has played in the Champions League for four seasons was a big coup.
Upon his signing, the Whites would have hoped McKennie could help them claw their way to safety.
They’ve been in a relegation fight for much of the season. That was one of the main reasons Jesse Marsch – who brought the midfielder to the club – was sacked in February.
His replacement, Javi Gracia, started on the right foot, with a win against Southampton. Leeds‘ last two games have seen them draw against Brighton and win 4-2 against Wolves.
The Elland Road outfit are now up to 14th in the Premier League. What’s more, McKennie has performed aptly during his time at the club.
While he’s not had an impact in terms of goals and assists, his experience has shown.
As such, it would not be a surprise if the Whites were keen on snaring him permanently. They have the option to make his loan from Juventus permanent for £30million.
McKennie interest ‘ongoing’ for three clubs
However, doing so could become a lot harder for them than it might have been. Indeed, GIVEMESPORT reports three clubs have ‘ongoing interest’ in McKennie.
Those are: Roma, Borussia Dortmund and Aston Villa. Immediately, it would appear Leeds will have a tough time in trying to snare the midfielder if any of those clubs make an approach.
Dortmund are one of Europe’s biggest clubs – they’re currently battling for the Bundesliga title. Roma are fighting in the Europa League this season, and frequently play European football, as a result of good league finishes in Serie A.
Villa, a league rival of Leeds’, are in a much better position than them. Indeed, the Midlands club are 11th in the Premier League, level on points with Chelsea.
Under Unai Emery, it seems they have a very high ceiling. Were Juventus to be approached by any of those clubs, Leeds’ financial might would likely not be a match.
What’s more, those clubs would offer a better standard of football than Leeds, given they’ve been in relegation danger for the last two seasons.
Leeds hope not lost
Were they to be relegated, the signing of McKennie seems almost impossible. Going from playing in the Champions League to the Championship in the space of a year is unlikely for any player.
However, their recent upturn in form could continue, potentially aiding their survival.
How far they can take that form, if it does continue, is another question. However, McKennie could see it as an opportunity to be part a key member of the project from then on.
Whether or not that happens remains to be seen. Perhaps the decision will be out of his hands anyway; if Juventus need to sell, they’ll be looking for a high offer, which Leeds may not come in with.
