Rotherham United are chasing Leeds United talent Leo Hjelde with Maximilian Wober’s arrival potentially leading to a loan exit.
That’s according to The Athletic, who suggest that Rotherham are emerging as a serious suitor for Hjelde.
It’s suggested that the Millers would like to take Hjelde on loan for the rest of the season to aid their battle against relegation.
Rotherham sit 21st in the Championship, just one point clear of the relegation places as things stand.
Boss Matt Taylor will want some impact signings this month and has just secured a deal for defender Sean Morrison.
Rotherham still want another defensive addition though and are looking for Hjelde to be their newest signing.
Leo Hjelde needs Leeds United loan exit
The signing of defender Maximilian Wober makes this deal imperative for all.
Wober has arrived from Red Bull Salzburg, giving Jesse Marsch a versatile defensive option.
Wober can play at centre back or left back – the same positions Hjelde can play.
Given that Pascal Struijk can also do that job, Hjelde’s chance of playing first-team football for Leeds any time soon are slim at best.
Hjelde, 19, now needs to go out and play some more senior football after just three first-team appearances for Leeds so far.
The Norwegian talent – signed from Celtic back in the summer of 2020 – is considered to be a major talent for the future.
Hjelde was been branded ‘the next Virgil van Dijk’ by John Hughes, his former boss at Ross County.
That’s enormous praise for Hjelde and a sign of just how impressive the teenager is, with Leeds hoping to make the most of his potential.
The right step now is for Hjelde to go out on loan and test himself against senior players in the Championship before heading back to Elland Road.
Staying in Yorkshire should appeal too, as should the challenge of desperately needing to win points for Rotherham in their battle against the drop.
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