Leeds United May Lose Tyler Adams to Historic Rivals

Tyler Adams ‘Open to the Move’ from Leeds United to Chelsea

Why Chelsea Could Be Interested in Tyler Adams

In spite of the Whites’ relegation last season, Adams was one of the few players that came away from the Premier League with some credit from loyal Whites fans. The American proved himself to be a highly committed midfielder with a dogged commitment to not only winning the ball, but effectively progressing it in a midfield that otherwise seemed entirely lost. Jesse Marsch’s incredibly narrow tactical system proved an issue for some players, but for someone with Adams’ intensity, it simply brought the game closer to him.

The Blues in particular could have an interest in the defensive midfielder as they are somewhat lacking depth there. With relatively little news coming out about Todd Boehly’s pursuit of Moises Caicedo in recent days, there is a chance that the West London outfit could move on to more attainable goals. Ben Jacobs, however, has indicated that this would be an additional signing, rather than an alternative.

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Tyler Adams’ Leeds United Release Clause

Whilst there are no firm facts available about what Adams’ release clause exactly entails, the USMNT star reportedly has a mechanism to leave the club after the Peacocks’ relegation to the Championship. The Daily Mail has reported that a fee would come to approximately £20 million, so the leadership at Leeds United would make a marginal profit on the star. With the EFL’s tight profit and sustainability rules, such a significant income would be ideal for a squad rebuild.

However, any financial advantages come at something of a cost to the club’s morale. Rivalries between the two clubs go back as far as the Don Revie era at Leeds United, and whilst the two clubs’ fortunes have wildly varied in the years since, there is still a distinct passion in the disdain each side holds for the other. Seeing a star player, and one that fans have otherwise viewed extremely fondly, go to a rival would be a tough blow to take.

Potential Signs of Tyler Adams Not Making the Move

There are a few distinct signs that fans can look for in the coming weeks. In his press conference, Daniel Farke stated that the American is relatively close to a comeback to the squad, so him playing a part in the squad would indicate a potential stay at Elland Road. Aside from checking teamsheets, simply listening to the German manager will likely provide answers. Farke has been incredibly candid thus far when discussing transfers and may respond transparently if asked in an interview or a future press conference.

Image courtesy of Joe Blackburn, licensed to Last Word on Sports.