After endearing himself to the Leeds United supporters like few others have managed, there would be an outcry if Jansson left for Southampton.
Pontus Jansson has wasted precious few opportunities to remind Leeds United just how much he appreciates their decision to rescue him from his Torino nightmare in the summer.
“I’m really happy to be here and Leeds have changed my football life again,” the Jansson told the Yorkshire Evening Post earlier in the season. “I feel happy to play football and I feel the love for the sport. I’m thankful for that.”
Two months later, Sky Sports reported that the Swede, complete with magic hat, had agreed a three-year deal to stay at Elland Road on a permanent basis after proving himself to be the rarest of commodities in his brief yet unforgettable Leeds United career – a cult hero who doubles up as a bonafide star man.
Yet, Leeds fans have been jilted before. Those old enough to remember Alan Smith crossing the Pennines and swapping white for red will know that nothing is ever set in stone and promises can be broken.
Therefore, despite the agreement of a permanent deal being in place, despite the very public adulations from Jansson himself, reports in The Sun that Southampton could make a bid for at the end of the season has got some supporters a little hot under the colour.
The Saints are on the lookout for a long-term replacement for Jose Fonte and their excellent scouting system means they are accustomed to completing astute bargains from clubs lower down the footballing ladder.
Jansson has arguably been the finest defender outside the top flight this season and, if promotion eludes Leeds once more, it’s understandably that the Premier League vultures will start circling.
Leeds defender Pontus Jansson being linked with Southampton.. Not a chance.. He’s Leeds & he knows he is #lufc #mot
— Ryan (@LeedsUtdRyan) March 1, 2017
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