£15m Star Decides on Transfer After Leeds Bids, Club Informed – Report
According to HITC, Jonathan Rowe has informed Norwich City and his representatives that he prefers a move to Marseille over Leeds United.
On August 20, it was reported that Leeds United is likely to miss out on a key attacking target, as the English winger seems determined to join a Ligue 1 side.
Roberto De Zerbi has reportedly persuaded the 21-year-old that moving to the French league would be best for his development.
Leeds United made two bids for the player, but neither met the £15 million asking price.
Meanwhile, West Ham and Crystal Palace held talks but did not make offers, leaving Marseille in a strong position to finalize the deal.
Daniel Farke is set to miss out on this transfer, which was intended to replace Crysencio Summerville, who moved to West Ham on August 3.
After nearly three weeks, Leeds is now on the verge of losing their top target.
The situation became more precarious when an opportunity to outbid Marseille and Monaco arose on August 13, yet no progress was made.
Rennes has now joined the race, and they are reportedly prepared to outbid everyone, suggesting that the situation could still change before anything is finalized.
However, Leeds needs to act quickly. Their interest in bringing Jack Clarke back from Sunderland is unlikely to succeed, as Sunderland is demanding a record fee due to a sell-on clause with Tottenham.
Stoke City’s Million Manhoef has been mentioned as a backup option if the pursuit of Rowe falls through, and it appears that this might be the case now.
With four signings still needed before the transfer deadline, time is running out for Leeds United to complete their business, as noted by The Athletic on August 16.
