Leeds United attacker Joe Gelhardt is being targeted by Swansea City as the Whites seemingly prepare to sign Hoffenheim’s Georginio Rutter.
That’s according to The Athletic, who claim that Swansea could like to take Gelhardt on loan for the second half of the season.
It’s stated that Leeds are yet to actually make Gelhardt available but that situation could soon change.
Leeds are closing in on signing Hoffenheim attacker Georginio Rutter, which would add another body to Jesse Marsch’s front line.
That would ultimately push Gelhardt further down the pecking order when what he really needs is playing time to develop.
Swansea are far from alone in the race though as Gelhardt has ‘significant’ Championship interest as clubs wait for Leeds to make a firm decision.
Joe Gelhardt loan spell makes sense for Leeds
Gelhardt, 20, has bags of ability but just isn’t going to nail down a regular starting spot for Leeds right now.
The versatile forward has started just one Premier League game this season, making an additional 13 substitute appearances.
That has all amounted to just 189 minutes of action – just over two full games – with Gelhardt bagging one assist and failing to find the net.
It’s now time for Gelhardt to get out and play games away from Elland Road.
Whether it’s as a winger or as a striker, Gelhardt needs to be playing and if it isn’t going to happen at Leeds, then half a season in the Championship could be vital to his development.
Gelhardt started against Swansea’s bitter rivals Cardiff City on Sunday, playing 73 minutes in the 2-2 draw.
South Wales could become home for Gelhardt soon enough but any Championship club with serious playoff ambitions should be asking about Gelhardt.
Hailed as a ‘special talent’ by Jamie Carragher, Gelhardt clearly has a huge future ahead of him – but a loan could be vital to unlocking that potential.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
