Leeds United held initial talks with the goalkeeper but it was Birmingham City that acted with a firm bid.
According to a report from the Yorkshire Evening Post, while Leeds United held discussions with David Stockdale’s representatives about a prospective move to Elland Road this summer they failed to make a concrete bid, watching on as Birmingham City made their move and signed the 31-year-old in a three-year deal.
The problem is, this could be a sign of things to come if Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani does not pull his finger out and announce the appointment of a new manager to replace Garry Monk.
Leeds fans keen to see a long-term replacement for the ageing Robert Green would have earmarked Stockdale as the perfect option, so it will be frustrating to see him turning out for Championship rivals Birmingham next season and beyond.
The reported discussions suggest Leeds were definitely interested in the Brighton and Hove Albion stopper. But with no boss to push through a deal, they were left twiddling their thumbs as he agreed an alternative move, and he is not the first who would have been an ideal option for the Whites but was instead allowed to slip through their grasp as they prioritise their manager search.
Monk’s exit has caused all sorts of problems for the club
A manager fights for his targets, but with the uncertainty shrouding Elland Road there was no one to say, categorically, that Stockdale was a target they simply could not afford to miss out on.
Had Monk still been in charge perhaps those initial discussions would have led to a firm bid; similarly if there had been a swift appointment following his shock resignation last month.
Instead Leeds fans are left wondering if they will be left with the proverbial transfer scraps, with their ideal targets allowed to go elsewhere even when the Whites show an early interest.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
