Interest in Leeds United’s high-value transfer exit “diminishes” after July bid rejection – The Athletic
Leeds’ transfer strategy this summer has focused on minimizing disruption following the previous year’s upheavals.
The inevitable departures after the playoff final meant the club had to retain as many players as possible while managing their finances effectively.
In July, Leeds received a substantial £30 million bid from Brighton for Georginio Rutter. However, LeedsLive reported that this offer was rejected, as the club aims to keep the French forward for another Championship season.
Rutter, who joined Leeds in January 2023 from Hoffenheim for a reported £36 million, would require a significantly higher fee to ensure a profitable sale.
The Athletic has now provided an update on Rutter following Crysencio Summerville’s transfer to West Ham over the weekend.
They indicate that interest from Brighton has diminished, and Rutter is expected to remain with Leeds beyond the August 30 deadline.
Rutter shone in the final pre-season friendly, scoring a goal and providing an assist. Leeds is hopeful they can retain the 22-year-old, despite initial interest from Brighton & Hove Albion.
Given that Leeds paid £36 million for him in January 2023, any offer would need to be substantial considering his potential, unless a release clause similar to those in the deals for Summerville and Archie Gray is present.
Considering the significant investment Leeds made to sign Rutter, accepting a low offer this summer would be financially imprudent. The cost to secure his departure this month would be prohibitively high, and it is unlikely any club would meet that price.
However, there is concern about the possibility of a release clause in his contract, as Summerville and Gray had such clauses, including one potentially agreed upon with the 49ers.
