Leeds United are closing in on their third signing of the January transfer window, according to reports…
What’s the word?
90min claim that midfielder Weston McKennie is set to undergo a medical ahead of his move from Juventus on Sunday after the two clubs agreed on terms.
It’s believed that the USMNT international will initially arrive at Elland Road on loan, costing around £1m, with the Yorkshire outfit holding a £29m option-to-buy clause. That could be triggered permanently if certain conditions are met, though that remains to be seen.
The American powerhouse is now due to link up with his fellow countrymen Brenden Aaronson and Tyler Adams at the Whites.
Is McKennie a huge signing for Leeds?
YES!
NO!
Masterclass from Orta
This deal appears to be a touch of genius from director of football Victor Orta – not only is he adding another top-quality player to Jesse Marsch’s squad but he’s doing it with terms that very much suit the club.
Having already broken their record fee with the arrival of Georginio Rutter (£35.5m) and brought in Max Wober (£11m) too, Leeds are probably light on finances, given they battled with relegation last season.
Azzedine Ounahi was thought to be a “top target” for Orta and co but it seems as if Leeds were unwilling to pay his £26m asking price. With McKennie, the club only has to pay £1m now and if they want to make it permanent in the summer, they can wait for fresh cash injection before doing so.
The Juve star will also add some depth to Marsch’s engine room as he’s capable of playing any role required; versatility that led his former Schalke 04 boss David Wagner to say:
“He’s an outstanding talent. In the No.6 or No.8 position he has the mentality, a real working mentality that you need. And he’s brave on the ball as well.”
McKennie caught the eye in the latest World Cup tournament, particularly against England in the group stage, with Independent journalist Miguel Delaney suggesting that he dominated the Three Lions’ midfield.
The “engine” on the pitch – as once described by football.london reporter Alasdair Gold – can do it all, with both finishing and defensive contribution listed as two of his strongest attributes by WhoScored.
That influence at both ends is also highlighted by the fact that he has managed to create three big chances, on top of an average of 0.9 tackles per game from what little game time he’s had in the Serie A this term, per Sofascore.
Given the evidence above, McKennie really will be a “huge statement signing” for Leeds, just as described by journalist Pete O’Rourke to Football FanCast recently.
If Orta does get this over the line following today’s medical, then it could well be another masterstroke from him in the transfer market.
AND in other news, Orta could seal an “absolutely incredible” signing in Leeds move for £25m “revelation”…
