Leeds Have Prime Opportunity to Secure Loan of Top Talent Cole Palmer Describes as ‘Big’ – Opinion
Leeds United Brace for a Busy Transfer Window as Daniel Farke Aims to Strengthen Squad Ahead of Crucial Season
The Whites narrowly missed out on promotion back to the Premier League last season and are determined to succeed this time around.
Leeds have offloaded numerous players, including six sales, six free transfers, and three loan deals. In terms of new signings, they have brought in Joe Rothwell on loan, and Joe Rodon, Jayden Bogle, and Alex Cairns on permanent deals.
Given the recent departures at right-back, Leeds are likely to strengthen this position. Archie Gray, Luke Ayling, Rasmus Kristensen, Cody Drameh, Connor Roberts, and Jamie Shackleton have all left Elland Road in recent weeks.
Reports suggest Leeds are targeting a young Premier League defender who can play both right-back and centre-back. The player is reportedly open to joining the Whites on loan, and his club prefers a Championship move for him.
Leeds are eyeing Chelsea’s Alfie Gilchrist.
The 20-year-old made a significant impact for Chelsea last season, making 17 senior appearances and scoring his first Premier League goal in a 6-0 win over Everton in April.
In late May, Ben Jacobs claimed on X that Leeds were among the clubs interested in Gilchrist. In June, Jacobs told the Just Joe Football Show: “Gilchrist would be open to a Leeds move. Despite the rivalry between Chelsea and Leeds, he respects both clubs and would be willing to help Leeds fight for promotion.”
Recently, Jacobs told GiveMeSport that Chelsea prefers to send Gilchrist to the Championship, similar to Levi Colwill’s loan to Huddersfield Town in 2021/22. Chelsea believes this move is best for Gilchrist’s development and avoids using an international loan spot.
Gilchrist has already proven himself capable in the Premier League and has earned praise from teammates like Cole Palmer and Marc Cucurella. In an Instagram post after his first league goal, Palmer called him “Big Alf,” and Cucurella described him as a “killer.”
Chelsea has high hopes for Gilchrist, and a loan to a top Championship side would be ideal for his growth. Leeds face strong competition for his services but are confident in their chances of securing his loan.
