LIVE
...

Follow us on

Soccer Transfer News

Report: Leeds United agree Hadi Sacko deal despite Sporting Lisbon’s stubbornness

Leeds fans (Reuters)
Follow us on Google Discover

Hadi Sacko certainly made an impact on loan at Leeds United from Sporting Lisbon last season but can he improve his end-product in 2017/18?

Hadi Sacko of Leeds United in action with Harlee Dean of Brentford

It is fair to say Hadi Sacko divided Leeds United supporters. For all those who wished his brain was as quick as his feet, many felt his rapid pace made him an excellent outlet for the Championship side.

Although fans will surely agree on the fact that £1.5 million represents something of a bargain for the former Sporting Lisbon loanee.

Portuguese publication Record claims that Leeds want to make Sacko’s loan deal permanent this summer after triggering the purchase option in his contract.

Brighton's Sebastien Pocognoli in action with Leeds' Hadi Sacko

The report adds that the Whites wanted to secure the Frenchman on a lower fee but Sporting’s stubborn approach to negotiations mean they will have to go the whole hog in order to complete their first summer signing.

The 23-year-old’s statistics were far from impressive last season with just two goals and three assists to his name from 38 Championship appearances. However, Sacko has the raw attributes to be a threat at this level – if he dedicates his summer to working on his end product that is.

Leeds United's Hadi Sacko celebrates scoring their second goal

The question on the lips of Leeds supporters, however, will be who is behind the deal. After the sudden and somewhat unexpected resignation of manager Garry Monk on Thursday, the Yorkshire giants are on the lookout for a new coach to take them into the play-offs after last season’s near miss.

And whoever arrives at Elland Road appears likely to inherit Sacko, and all the positives and negatives that come with managing a player capable of flitting seamlessly between inspired and infuriating.

Leeds United manager Garry Monk before the matchThe recently departed Garry Monk brought Sacko to Elland Road