REVIEW: “Leeds United Captain Decides on Contract as Yorkshire Rivals Near Key Striker Signing”
The summer transfer window in the Championship is heating up with deals being completed across the division. Sheffield Wednesday have already secured six new signings to strengthen Danny Rohl’s squad. In contrast, Sheffield United have just made their first signing of the summer, acquiring Jamie Shackleton on a free transfer.
Here’s a look at the latest transfer news around the Championship.
Luton Town are in advanced talks to sign Shandon Baptiste, who was recently released by Brentford. The Grenada international had been with Brentford since 2020, but following his release by the Premier League club, he appears set to return to the Championship. Teamtalk reports that Luton Town, preparing for life back in the second tier, are leading the race to sign him. This move comes after Luton bid farewell to Ross Barkley earlier this week, as the former England international joined Aston Villa.
Despite seeing several players linked with moves away from Kenilworth Road this summer, Luton manager Rob Edwards is eager to keep his squad intact, aiming for a promotion push back to the Premier League.
Leeds United, according to Teamtalk, have failed to reach a new contract agreement with club captain Liam Cooper. The center-back, whose contract has expired, had been in discussions with the club, but it seems his decade-long tenure at Elland Road may be coming to an end. Reports suggest that Leeds offered Cooper a one-year deal, but the 32-year-old was hoping for a longer contract. With no agreement in place, Cooper may seek opportunities elsewhere. Last season, under Daniel Farke, Cooper struggled for playing time, making only 15 Championship appearances. If he departs, Leeds will need to find a new leader.
Hull City owner Acun Ilicali has announced that the club is close to signing a new striker. The Tigers have already secured Ryan Giles from Luton permanently, but Giles remains the club’s only senior addition so far. Key players like Jaden Philogene and Jacob Greaves continue to be linked with moves away. Despite these challenges, it seems Hull City is nearing a breakthrough with a new striker signing imminent.
“We are getting a good striker whom we love very much and we are very happy about him,” Ilicali told Sky Sports. “Recruitment in football is not easy, but of course, we will fight. We finished the league in 7th, which is a big success for us.”
As the summer progresses, clubs across the Championship will continue to strengthen their squads in preparation for the new season. Whether it’s signing new talent or securing the future of existing players, the transfer window remains a crucial period for teams aiming to achieve their goals in the upcoming campaign.
