Last Word on Football understands from reliable sources that Charlie Cresswell is currently holding out on signing a new deal with Leeds United, as there are “two Premier League clubs interested in him”. LeedsLive have previously described the player as an “excellent talent”.
Charlie Cresswell Leeds United Contract in Jeopardy Due to Premier League Interest
Charlie Cresswell Leeds United Contract Talks Stall
Cresswell’s most recent contract, signed in 2021, is a deal that runs until 2025. This means that the Elland Road hierarchy have just two years to secure the youngster’s future at Leeds, leading to key contract talks that could see him develop at Thorp Arch rather than elsewhere. Although the club would have most likely preferred to get an agreement earlier in the transfer window in order to be able to plan, the centre-back’s role in the U21 Euros will have held discussions up.
After performing admirably in the Championship last season at Millwall (until fracturing an orbital bone), the Premier League may seem like a natural progression from his point of view. However, a full season of football in the Championship with the Whites is firmly on the club’s agenda, with Daniel Farke likely to use a lot of the promise that the youngster has shown thus far.
Read More: Cresswell Amongst Eight Stars Pushing for Exit
Leeds United Transfer News Paints Worrying Picture
Recent news coming out of Elland Road isn’t the most encouraging. Phil Hay reported the prospective exit of Max Wober which weakens the club’s defence even further, as three defenders have already left the club on loan. Brenden Aaronson’s exit won’t be much cause for concern amongst the fans following a series of lacklustre performances last season, but the loss of Rodrigo may be a serious issue. Patrick Bamford is the only other recognised number nine.
There has, however, been some positive movement in recent weeks. Ethan Ampadu’s signature means that there is a highly versatile midfielder/centre-back hybrid added to the side in case of Tyler Adams’ exit, and the impending deal for Karl Darlow provides more certainty for the Whites in terms of who starts in net. Daniel Farke has an incredibly complex job in the coming weeks, but it is one that may still prove fruitful.
Read More: Leeds United Likely to Sign Karl Darlow
Where The Youngster Likely Fits In?
Cresswell is likely to fit in at Elland Road as a major part of the starting eleven. He spent last season out on loan at Millwall to develop into a more effective player, proving himself by playing at a high standard until getting a major injury that forced him to play in a protective mask.
The departures of Robin Koch, Diego Llorente and Rasmus Kristensen are also sure to push the centre-back up the pecking order, with the side now running incredibly low on defensive options. Fitting in alongside Liam Cooper would be ideal for his development, with the club captain offering some much-needed leadership to the back line.
Image courtesy of Joe Blackburn, licensed to Last Word on Sports.
