Leeds United’s Transfer Funds Bolstered by Sell-On Clause Benefit

Leeds United will receive a six-figure sum following the transfer of their former Under-21 striker Max Dean to Belgian top-flight club KAA Gent. Dean has joined Gent from Milton Keynes Dons for an undisclosed fee, reportedly over £2 million.

Dean secured his move abroad after an impressive season with Milton Keynes Dons, scoring 19 goals in 34 matches and helping the team reach the play-offs, where they eventually lost to Crawley Town. Initially, it seemed that the 20-year-old might follow his former Leeds teammate Charlie Cresswell to Toulouse, but Gent emerged as the winner in the race for Dean’s signature.

Dean has signed a four-year contract with Gent, who finished eighth last season. Gent coach Wouter Vrancken praised Dean, saying: “Max has a special profile. He’s an opportunistic type with a direct playing style. He radiates a lot of energy, does not hesitate in the box, and scores easily with his left or right foot. It is a good thing that our scouting can also identify these types of players.”

This move marks a significant milestone in Dean’s career. The forward expressed his excitement, stating: “I am very happy with this great opportunity and am really looking forward to playing for the supporters of KAA Gent. Hopefully, we will see each other soon and experience great times together. I can’t wait to get started.”

Leeds United are set to benefit financially from Dean’s transfer, thanks to a 50% sell-on clause included in the deal when he moved to Milton Keynes Dons in January 2023. Dons sporting director Liam Sweeting commented: “First and foremost, we are extremely proud of what Max has achieved with us and the opportunity this has created for him as he begins a new chapter in his career.

“Like many players throughout the club’s history, Max joined us looking to forge a path in the game, and the outcome is one for us all to celebrate. Once again, our club has provided a platform, pathway, and developmental environment that allowed Max to showcase his qualities and create great memories for us all in the process. He is the latest example of what players can achieve at MK Dons.

“Without a doubt, Max shared a special connection with our fan base, and while we made every effort to offer him a new and improved contract and keep him in Milton Keynes, sometimes an opportunity to test yourself playing top-flight football in another country is just too appealing to turn down.”